China showcased its military might at a parade marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.
The military parade, announced to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Japan's official surrender in World War II, turned into a show of force by China. Chinese President Xi Jinping was accompanied by figures such as Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un. In his speech, Xi described China as “unstoppable,” stating, “Today, humanity once again faces a choice between peace and war, dialogue and conflict.”
Xi, wearing a suit in the style of former leader Mao Zedong, founder of the People's Republic of China, welcomed his guests, including more than 20 heads of state and government, speaking in English.
The three leaders met for the first time
Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong Un met for the first time. The North Korean leader, who rarely travels abroad, took his place immediately to Xi's left during his visit to Beijing. Putin appeared to his right. Xi shook hands with both of them before the military parade began and met with the two guests of honor.
Xi has been engaged in intense diplomatic talks in recent days to position the group known as the Global South directly opposite NATO. According to many analysts, Beijing is trying to build a new “Warsaw Pact.” China, which hosted dozens of leaders at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Tianjin, paid special attention to the parties involved in Trump's trade tariff war.
The images of the three leaders walking, chatting, and shaking hands in Tiananmen Square are being described as the biggest challenge to the West to date. Putin reportedly thanked Kim for the courage and heroism of North Korean soldiers fighting alongside the Russian army. It is estimated that approximately 15,000 North Korean soldiers are fighting in the Ukraine War.
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A message from Trump
US President Donald Trump posted about the events on the social media platform Truth Social. In his post, Trump said, “Please convey my warmest regards to Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un as they plot against the United States.”
Trump said last Tuesday, “I'm not worried at all. We have by far the strongest military in the world. They will never use their armies against us. Believe me.”
China unveiled its new weapons
From nuclear-powered ballistic missiles to space defense systems, China showcased some of its weapons at a military parade, claiming they are within striking distance of the entire world. According to China's state media outlet Global Times, there are missiles designed to destroy ships at sea. These missiles can reach many targets, from the headquarters of the 7th Fleet in Japan to the US Navy patrolling the Western Pacific.
At the parade, China showcased new nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles, underwater drones, and hypersonic missiles, among other military equipment. The first air-launched nuclear missile, the JL-1, was also unveiled. During the parade, 80,000 doves and colorful balloons symbolizing peace were released into the air.
