On September 3, 2025, China staged an unprecedented military parade in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. The event, one of the largest of its kind since 2019, was marked by a combination of solemn remembrance, patriotic fervor, and a dramatic show of military might that underscored Beijing’s global ambitions.

Xi Jinping’s Call for Peace and Reflection

Ahead of the parade, Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a keynote speech that blended reflection with subtle messaging. Xi honored the sacrifices of millions during the Second World War, paying tribute to the victims of Japanese aggression as well as all who fought to end fascism. He urged the world to “choose peace over war and dialogue over confrontation,” warning that humanity must address the root causes of conflict to prevent future global disasters. His remarks were as much a commemoration as they were a strategic reminder of China’s stance in global affairs.

A Massive Display of Military Power

The parade itself was a spectacle of China’s growing military strength. Thousands of troops marched in flawless formations, their steps echoing in unison along Beijing’s historic Chang’an Avenue. The event featured the latest advancements in Chinese defense technology, including:

• Ballistic and hypersonic missiles designed to enhance China’s deterrence capabilities.

• Advanced fighter jets showcasing aerial superiority.

• Artillery systems, tanks, and armored vehicles signaling China’s readiness for modern warfare.

Several pieces of military hardware were publicly unveiled for the first time, sending a clear message to both allies and rivals about China’s defense preparedness. A booming artillery salute and overhead aerial displays further dramatized the show of strength, blending military power with patriotic ceremony.

High-Profile Attendance with Putin and Kim

The symbolism of the event was heightened by the presence of international leaders, particularly Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Both stood alongside Xi Jinping on the reviewing platform, waving to troops and greeting World War II veterans. Their attendance carried strong geopolitical undertones, reinforcing the narrative of China, Russia, and North Korea presenting a united front in the face of Western influence, particularly from the United States.

Over twenty foreign dignitaries attended the ceremony, reflecting China’s attempt to position itself as a leader of global solidarity while celebrating wartime victory.

Strategic Messaging and National Pride

The Victory Day parade served dual purposes—remembrance of the nation’s sacrifices during the war against Japan, and a demonstration of China’s modern military capabilities and national pride. The event was heavily covered in state media, which emphasized patriotic themes such as choirs singing revolutionary anthems like “Defend the Yellow River” and “No New China Without the Communist Party of China.”

The imagery of tens of thousands waving red flags in unison symbolized national unity under the Communist Party. This display was not only about honoring history but also about legitimizing China’s present-day policies and projecting Beijing’s global leadership ambitions.

Global Reactions and Context

The parade attracted international attention, particularly amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific and global power shifts. The United States and its allies closely monitored the military displays, interpreting them as signals of China’s advancing military modernization.

US President Donald Trump, who frequently engages in sharp rhetoric against Beijing, commented on social media by questioning whether Xi would acknowledge America’s decisive role in winning WWII. This highlighted the continuing strategic rivalry between Washington and Beijing, even in the context of historical remembrance.

Meanwhile, analysts noted that the presence of Putin and Kim signaled an emerging trilateral axis of cooperation, countering Western alliances such as NATO and the QUAD.

Broader Significance

China’s largest military parade in years conveyed three layers of meaning:

1. Historical Legacy – honoring the millions who died during the war against Japan and reminding the world of China’s sacrifices.

2. National Power – a showcase of cutting-edge military technology meant to inspire domestic pride and deter external adversaries.

3. Global Posture – a signal to the international community that China seeks not only to defend its sovereignty but also to shape the future balance of global power.

Conclusion

The 2025 Beijing military parade was both a commemoration of history and a projection of future strength. With Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong Un standing together, the event symbolized a powerful geopolitical message. While framed as a remembrance of WWII’s end, the sheer scale, technology on display, and the high-profile attendance highlighted China’s determination to assert itself as a central actor in global affairs.

For Beijing, the parade was more than just a display of military power—it was a statement of China’s readiness to lead on the world stage, defend its interests, and challenge existing power structures.

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