Finally, the one closest to home— since September 3, 2015, when China’s President Xi Jinping gave a remarkable speech during a military parade in Beijing— This year coincided with the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. This event, held at the historic Tiananmen Square, showcased China’s military might through an impressive display of missiles, military trucks, and other military equipment. Xi’s comments on the global stage highlighted a stark message: the world is facing a critical choice between “peace or war” and “dialogues or confrontation.”
Since first assuming office in 2013, Xi Jinping has profoundly altered China’s political landscape. His most consequential move was removing presidential term limits in 2018. His recent comments shed light on his understanding of the comprehensive role China should play in global affairs. This is particularly critical in light of increasing provocations against the United States. Asserting militaristic priorities in his speech, Xi underscored the CCP’s assertion of the Chinese military’s role in defending national sovereignty and territorial integrity. He pledged to improve military assets.
Even as Xi delivered this optimistic forecast, tensions between the U.S. and China have been escalating dangerously. The tone of Xi’s response to Trump’s recent entreaty to recognize America’s sacrifices in winning China’s independence must now have taken a dagger-like turn. Trump’s comments reflect a growing unease regarding perceived threats from China, as he remarked, “Please give my warmest regards to Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong Un, as you conspire against The United States of America.”
The show of arms drew a lot of media interest from around the world, especially focused on the lack of Western leaders attending. Political analyst Jeremy Chan noted, “The foreign delegations in attendance will demonstrate shifting patterns in Chinese influence, with Western leaders largely absent.” Most strikingly, eight of the ten leaders from Southeast Asia came to the gala, underscoring China’s growing influence in the region. South Korea’s new president, Yoon Suk-yeol, rejected the offer. At the same time, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un sent his own delegation, indicating a thaw in ties between Beijing and Pyongyang.
The two leaders signed a legally binding agreement to construct the Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline, further solidifying their alliance amid geopolitical tensions. Their alliance was further on display during a military parade in Moscow in May, where Xi sat next to Putin as they celebrated their mutual contempt for the U.S.
Xi’s emphasis on military strength was evident as he declared that “no force can stop the Chinese people and the Chinese nation forging ahead.” This was the core phrase echoing throughout his speech, amplifying his position that he will focus on making China great again — starting with military black letter law.
The contrast between Xi’s belligerent, military-focused speech and Trump’s curiously conciliatory comments could not be more telling in placing the two nations clearly within a competitive narrative. Both leaders are understandably keen to establish their leadership in a world order that is quickly upending. Their rhetoric raises concerns about growing tensions that could poison future diplomatic encounters.