China’s President Xi Jinping addressed a massive gathering in Beijing on Wednesday, warning the world is at a pivotal moment between “peace or war” and “dialogue or confrontation.” The occasion was commemorating the 80th anniversary of World War II’s end, marked by China’s largest-ever military parade at Tiananmen Square.
The event featured a striking display of China’s modern warfare capabilities, including hypersonic missiles, autonomous drones, underwater unmanned vehicles, and cyber defence units. Thousands of troops marched with precision formation as fighter jets soared overhead.
Xi framed the parade as a symbol of China’s commitment to defending national sovereignty and promoting global stability, calling for a “community with a shared future for mankind.”
High-profile attendees included Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, indicating a rare public alliance amid tensions with the West.
In response, U.S. President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social, urging Xi to recognise America’s role in helping China’s wartime freedom and accusing the three leaders of conspiring against the United States.
“Please give my warmest regards to Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong Un, as you conspire against The United States of America,” Trump wrote, while also acknowledging American sacrifices abroad.
Despite geopolitical friction, U.S.-China trade talks continue cautiously. After months of tariff disputes, both nations agreed to suspend most tariffs until mid-November, hopeful for a possible summit between Trump and Xi to ease tensions.
The parade also served as a demonstration of China’s rapidly modernising military industrial complex, unveiling a host of domestically developed cutting-edge weaponry.