Staff Correspondent
Beijing: On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, a rare historic scene unfolded in Beijing’s grand military parade. Russian President Vladimir Putin, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, and Chinese President Xi Jinping stood side by side on the same stage. Walking together on the red carpet, the three leaders shook hands, sending a strong message of unity.
China presented the event as a symbol of power and solidarity. Kim Jong-un’s presence was especially significant—this was only his second foreign trip in the last six years, and the first time he had appeared with both Xi and Putin at the same ceremony. His daughter, Kim Ju-ae, also attended, an appearance highlighted by North Korea’s state media.
Also present at the parade were Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Myanmar’s army chief Min Aung Hlaing. Notably, no major Western leaders were in attendance.
In his speech, Xi Jinping warned: “Humanity now stands at a crossroads—between peace and war, dialogue and confrontation. China cannot be stopped, and the roots of war must be eradicated so history does not repeat itself.”
Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump mocked the event on social media, writing: “Best wishes to President Xi and the great people of China. And when you conspire against the United States with Putin and Kim, please give them my warm regards as well.”
The parade marked the culmination of Xi Jinping’s busy diplomatic week. Just earlier, at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, Xi hosted leaders from several countries and accused the U.S. of pursuing repressive policies. At the same summit, Putin reiterated Russia’s firm stance in support of the Ukraine war.
The parade also showcased China’s cutting-edge military technologies, grabbing global attention. Photos circulating online revealed displays of new anti-ship missiles, advanced underwater drones, and modern anti-missile systems—clear signals of Beijing’s growing defense capabilities.