Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong-un recently led over 20 world leaders in a grand “victory day” parade in Beijing, commemorating the 80th anniversary of Japan’s surrender in World War II. The event, held in Tiananmen Square, prominently featured military personnel and elaborate displays, symbolizing not only historical recognition but a potential recalibration of global alliances.
The dazzling military display was a reminder of the deepening connections among China, Russia, and North Korea. Foreign and defense analysts alike greeted this meeting as an undisguised sign of a new global balance of power. Xi Jinping’s leadership reflects a delicate balancing act, as he navigates China’s alliance with Russia and North Korea while simultaneously seeking to avoid additional sanctions from Western nations, particularly those aligned with Ukraine.
Amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has persisted for more than three years, Vladimir Putin’s presence at the parade underscores Russia’s commitment to its military endeavors. Most recently, Kim Jong-un declared high levels of economic growth in North Korea. He credited this booming success almost entirely to missile shipments to Russia. This thriving economy has helped usher in a very positive trend for the otherwise cut-off nation. It remains in peril, given the unpredictable course of the Ukrainian war.
In fact, Xi Jinping and Putin have gone on record declaring a “limitless” partnership. This term underscores their deep strategic interconnectedness in today’s rapidly transforming geopolitical environment. This relationship is not without its tensions. Media reports indicate that Beijing may already be second-guessing Russia’s decision to invade Ukraine and North Korea’s cooperation in supporting that invasion. This dynamic complicates Xi’s leadership as he seeks to maintain China’s interests while navigating international pressures.
The first meeting of these three leaders has sent shockwaves through Western capitals, even reaching the ears of U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump’s comments speak to a deeper anxiety about the potential repercussions of this new alliance.
“May President Xi and the wonderful people of China have a great and lasting day of celebration. Please give my warmest regards to Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong Un, as you conspire against The United States of America.” – Donald Trump
Xi Jinping faces sizable economic headwinds, with stagnation predicated by deflationary forces and a decaying property market. Amid all this upheaval, the pride parade evolved into an incredible stage to demonstrate power and unity. The symbolic image of Xi, Putin, and Kim together may threaten to overshadow the military displays that characterized the event.
Though deepening military cooperation, Kim Jong-un is not closing the door on diplomatic engagement. He appears especially keen on making fast friends with South Korea’s incoming liberal president, Lee Jae-myung. For North Korea, increasing its presence in the region is the goal. It aspires to maneuver deftly in its bilateral relationships with more muscular patrons.