Xi, Putin and Kim Display Unified Front at Massive Beijing Military Parade

Published: 03 September 2025. The English Chronicle Desk

In a historic display of solidarity, the leaders of China, Russia, and North Korea appeared together in public for the first time during a massive military parade in Beijing, capturing global attention. The event, held to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two, was a striking combination of ceremonial precision, military strength, and political symbolism.

President Xi Jinping used the occasion to underscore a message of global choice between peace and conflict as China unveiled an extensive array of advanced weaponry, including nuclear-capable missiles with intercontinental reach. The parade showcased China’s modernisation efforts across its armed forces, with thousands of troops and cutting-edge military equipment on display. Among the notable innovations were stealth drones capable of supporting manned fighter jets, robotic “wolf” units, laser weapons, and giant underwater nuclear drones.

Before the parade commenced, the three leaders – Xi, Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong Un – were seen together, greeting one another and walking side by side along Tiananmen Square, presenting a carefully choreographed image of unity. Later, Putin and Kim held bilateral talks lasting two-and-a-half hours at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse, reportedly discussing North Korea’s military support to Russia in Ukraine and reflecting on prior agreements regarding weapons and ammunition transfers. Analysts estimate that up to 15,000 North Korean troops are currently deployed alongside Russian forces, further cementing the two nations’ military collaboration.

Xi’s address, delivered without naming specific Western nations, called on all countries to “draw lessons from history, value peace and work together to create a brighter future for humanity,” concluding with a toast to “common prosperity for all humankind.” The spectacle concluded with the release of thousands of doves and balloons and a reception at the Great Hall of the People.

Attendance at the parade was limited to around 50,000 vetted spectators, while 24 foreign dignitaries joined the celebrations, including Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Vietnam’s Luong Cuong, and Zimbabwe’s Emmerson Mnangagwa. Notably, former Chinese President Hu Jintao was absent, as were most Western leaders, though Slovakia’s Robert Fico and Serbia’s Aleksandar Vucic were present and photographed with Putin after the parade. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung declined an invitation, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had met Xi earlier in the week, also did not attend.

The unprecedented public alignment of Xi, Putin, and Kim drew immediate reactions from international observers, including former US President Donald Trump, who accused the three leaders of conspiring against the United States. Kremlin spokesperson Yuri Ushakov dismissed the claim as “ironic,” affirming that the trio’s meeting was not aimed at plotting against Washington but reflected an understanding of global dynamics in the current international situation.

The Beijing parade marked not only a significant military exhibition but also a carefully orchestrated demonstration of political alliances, signaling the strategic depth of the partnerships between China, Russia, and North Korea at a time of heightened global tension.