China’s Grand Military Parade
On Wednesday, China is set to hold its largest military parade to date, marking the 80th anniversary of the conclusion of World War II and Japan’s official surrender. The event will unfold along Chang-an Avenue, translating to “Eternal Peace.”
Joining Chinese Prime Minister Xi Jinping for this significant “Victory Day” celebration will be Russia’s President Vladimir Putin and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un. This parade will feature an array of China’s cutting-edge weaponry.
Heightened Security Measures
Rehearsals for the parade have been ongoing for several weeks, with security heightened throughout the vast capital of Beijing. Buildings overlooking the parade route will be secured, accommodating dignitaries from 26 countries along with an anticipated crowd of 50,000 spectators.
A Milestone for Xi Jinping
For the 72-year-old Xi, this parade marks a pivotal moment, as it is the third military display he has overseen since he took office in 2012. As the commander-in-chief of the world’s largest military force, he will be watching tens of thousands of troops parade towards Tiananmen Square.
Significant Symbolism
The event will not only highlight China’s expanding military capabilities—including hypersonic weapons, nuclear-capable missiles, fighter jets, and underwater drones—but also its increasing geopolitical influence, particularly in relation to the United States’ adversaries.
Kim Jong Un arrived in Beijing Tuesday on his distinctive green armored train, having made a stop to inspect missile production facilities in North Korea before crossing into China.
First Multilateral Diplomatic Engagement
This parade will represent Kim’s first joint appearance with both Xi and Putin, marking a significant multilateral diplomatic occasion for the North Korean leader. The presence of the three leaders, along with their combined military might, sends a clear message. Analysts have previously labeled them as part of an “Axis of Upheaval.”
Global Unity Against the West
In addition to Kim, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed the attendance of Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian and Myanmar’s military junta leader, President Min Aung Hlaing. This gathering underscores a unified front against Western powers and a challenge to the U.S.-dominated global order established over the last century.
Xi and Putin have consistently expressed ambitions to alter this status quo. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov previously stated, “We, together with you and with our sympathizers, will move towards a multipolar, just, democratic world order.”
Challenges for U.S. Foreign Policy
This assembly in Beijing starkly contrasts President Trump’s assertions of fostering relationships with Xi, Putin, and Kim. The bond between Xi and Putin has been accentuated leading up to this military display.
China and Russia’s partnership, described as having “no limits,” demonstrates the complexities of international relations as China continues to support Russia amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Despite claiming neutrality, China’s procurement of Russian oil and technology continues to assist Putin’s prolonged warfare.
Korean Support for Russia
North Korea’s backing of Russia’s military efforts has been notably evident, with reports indicating that since last October, approximately 13,000 North Korean troops have been sent to support Russia. Estimates suggest that around 2,000 of these troops may have lost their lives in combat alongside Russian forces.
Assertions of Power
This parade will serve as a display of not only support for Kim’s nuclear program, currently under scrutiny due to multiple UN sanctions, but also Xi’s establishment as a key power broker in global politics.
In the days leading up to the parade, Xi hosted a regional security summit in Tianjin, where he met with over 20 world leaders, including Modi and Putin. At this summit, Xi emphasized the need for fairness and justice in global governance while subtly addressing the U.S. without naming it.
Concluded Messages
As Xi, Putin, and Modi were seen enjoying camaraderie at the summit, their collective appearance reinforces Xi’s stance as a significant influencer amid global tensions. The impending parade will not only showcase China’s military prowess but also solidify its alliances, presenting a strong message aimed at the United States.
