China Displays Military Power in Beijing Parade

World 11:06 AM - 2025-09-03

China's military parade.

China marked the 80th anniversary of Japan’s surrender in the Second World War with a grand military parade in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square. President Xi Jinping presided over the event, joined by Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, in a striking show of solidarity among the three powers.

A New Generation of Weapons

The 70-minute parade featured over 10,000 troops, 45 military formations, and a diverse array of aircraft and vehicles. China showcased a new generation of weaponry, including fourth-generation fighter jets, unmanned aerial systems, hypersonic missiles, and advanced main battle tanks such as the Type 99A. State media emphasised that all the equipment displayed was developed and manufactured domestically and is already in service with the armed forces.

For the first time, China presented its strategic air, naval, and space forces together as a unified triad, signalling a major shift in military doctrine. Flyovers by helicopters and fighter jets, along with symbolic displays of doves and balloons, added a ceremonial note to the commemoration.

Political Significance

Xi Jinping used the occasion to highlight China’s role in safeguarding peace and shaping a new international order. The presence of Putin and Kim underscored deepening ties between Beijing, Moscow, and Pyongyang. For Kim, it was the first time he had participated in such an international gathering.

The event also carried a strong domestic message of national pride and unity, recalling China’s sacrifices during the Second World War while projecting the image of a modern, technologically advanced military power.

Trump’s Response

US President Donald Trump reacted sharply, accusing Xi, Putin, and Kim of “acting against the United States.” Writing online, he argued that Washington’s sacrifices in helping secure China’s liberation from Japan had been overlooked.

“The Americans worked hard to achieve China’s victory and glory,” Trump wrote. “They deserve recognition for their courage and sacrifice.”

Despite his criticism, Trump told reporters he did not regard the parade as a direct challenge to the United Nations, stressing instead his “strong bilateral relationship” with Xi.

Reactions Abroad

The Japanese government declined to comment, while Russian Deputy Prime Minister Yuri Ushakov dismissed Trump’s remarks as unfounded, insisting that no such insults towards the United States had been made. He emphasised the importance of America’s role in international affairs but rejected suggestions of hostility from the three leaders.

According to Russian state media, Kim Jong-un also held more than an hour of talks with senior Russian officials, covering bilateral relations and developments in Ukraine.


PUKMEDIA