China’s Xi Projects Power at Military Parade with Putin and Kim

BEIJING, Sept. 3 (Reuters) - Chinese President Xi Jinping warned the world it faces a “choice between peace or conflict” as he presided over China’s largest-ever military parade on Wednesday, flanked by Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Xi reviewed more than 70 minutes of marching troops, tanks, drones and advanced missile systems in Tiananmen Square, marking the 80th anniversary of Japan’s World War II surrender. Speaking from an open-top limousine, he urged humanity to choose dialogue over confrontation and win-win cooperation over zero-sum games.

The parade showcased China’s strategic forces for the first time, including land-, sea- and air-based nuclear-capable missiles and unmanned intelligence and counter-drone equipment. Xi demanded the People’s Liberation Army integrate cutting-edge technology into a “world-class” military capable of safeguarding national sovereignty and supporting the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

Putin and Kim, who rarely appear together publicly, stood beside Xi on the Tiananmen Rostrum. Their presence underlined deepening ties among Beijing, Moscow and Pyongyang amid escalating tensions with the United States. Western leaders largely shunned the event, while analysts noted the trio’s unity symbolizes a challenge to U.S. global leadership.

Ahead of the parade, U.S. President Donald Trump posted on his Truth Social platform, urging Xi to “send my warmest regards to Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un as you plot against the United States of America.” Trump also touted America’s role in China’s liberation from Japan, drawing both criticism and mockery internationally.

Domestic reaction was overwhelmingly positive, with televised coverage trending on Chinese social media. Spectators cheered as Xi drove past formations of soldiers chanting “We serve the people!” and witnessed synchronized flyovers of fighter jets. Scholars say the display reinforces national pride and underscores Xi’s consolidation of military authority after sweeping reforms and anti-corruption purges in the PLA.

As evening fell, a state reception and musical gala were set to follow, capping a day designed to project China’s rising power and the political clout of its leader on the world stage.