Chinese President Xi Jinping issued a stark warning that humanity stands at a crossroads, facing the choice between peace or war. His remarks came during a massive military parade in Beijing, marking the 80th anniversary of Japan’s defeat in World War Two.
The event showcased China’s military power and drew more than 25 global leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Western leaders, however, largely boycotted the occasion, underscoring deep divisions in today’s geopolitical climate.
Xi Jinping’s Message at Tiananmen Square
Speaking before a crowd of over 50,000 spectators, Xi declared that mankind must choose between dialogue or confrontation, win-win or zero-sum outcomes. He emphasized that the Chinese people firmly stand on what he described as the “right side of history.”
Riding in an open-top limousine, Xi inspected troops and state-of-the-art equipment. Displays included hypersonic missiles, underwater drones, and a weaponized robot wolf. Fighter jets flew in formation while helicopters carried large banners, concluding with the release of 80,000 birds symbolizing peace.
Wearing a tunic suit reminiscent of Mao Zedong, Xi personally greeted world leaders before taking his seat between Putin and Kim in the viewing gallery. The three leaders engaged in conversations as thousands of soldiers marched past. This marked the first time Xi, Putin, and Kim appeared together in public.
Diplomatic Significance and Political Statements
The parade also reflected China’s efforts to project diplomatic strength. Putin and Kim were honored guests, despite their isolation from the West over the war in Ukraine and North Korea’s nuclear program.
Putin used the opportunity to meet Kim, thanking him for his support in Ukraine. Kim responded by pledging to do everything possible to help Russia. His presence was historic, as no North Korean leader had attended a Chinese military parade in 66 years.
Meanwhile, Xi’s vision of a new global order was at the center of the message. Earlier in the week, he had called for unity against hegemonism and power politics, a clear criticism of Washington. Analysts noted that Xi now sees China as taking the lead in shaping global affairs.
Regional Security and Strategic Alliances
Observers closely watched whether the event signaled deeper defense ties between China, Russia, and North Korea. Moscow and Pyongyang signed a military pact in 2024, while Beijing maintains close relations with North Korea. A strengthened trilateral alliance could reshape the balance of power in the Asia-Pacific region.
The parade also served as a platform for economic diplomacy. Putin finalized new energy deals with Beijing, while Kim sought implicit backing for his nuclear program.
Military Modernization and Internal Challenges
Beyond symbolism, the parade highlighted China’s military modernization. Advanced drones, laser weapons, and hypersonic anti-ship missiles were displayed, reinforcing Beijing’s growing capabilities.
However, the event came amid sweeping corruption purges within the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). Dozens of generals, once close to Xi, have been removed in recent years. Analysts suggested that the parade was designed not only to impress the world but also to overshadow internal challenges.
Security Preparations for the Event
Security in Beijing was unprecedented. Roads and schools were closed, rehearsals ran through the night, and thousands of volunteers were mobilized nationwide. Authorities focused on maintaining absolute control during the high-profile celebration.
The military parade in Beijing was more than a commemoration of World War Two’s end. It was a demonstration of China’s global ambitions, military strength, and political alliances. Xi Jinping’s warning that the world faces a choice between peace or war underscored the stakes in today’s volatile international environment.
