Xi, Putin, Kim attend Beijing military parade marking WWII anniversary

Chinese President Xi Jinping, joined by Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, arrived at Beijing’s historic Tiananmen Gate on Wednesday to witness a grand military parade marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.

Xi greeted each foreign guest on a red carpet before leading them to the viewing platform overlooking Tiananmen Square. Putin and Kim walked alongside Xi, pausing with other dignitaries to shake hands with five World War II veterans, some over 100 years old.

Around two dozen foreign leaders attended the event, underscoring efforts by many nations to deepen ties with Beijing.

The parade showcased China’s growing military capabilities, including advanced missiles and fighter jets, with some equipment displayed publicly for the first time. Beyond military might, the event was aimed at reminding the world of China’s role as a key wartime battleground, where millions perished under Japanese invasion and occupation.

Domestically, the commemoration serves to highlight the Communist Party’s leadership and China’s transformation since the war. Internationally, it signals Beijing’s ambition to present itself as a global counterweight to the U.S.-led postwar order.