China hosted what it described as its biggest military parade on Wednesday to commemorate Japan’s surrender at the end of World War II, showcasing the country’s growing military power.
More than two dozen world leaders attended the parade in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square, where China displayed some of its newest and most advanced weapons. Rehearsals had been underway for weeks, with tight security across the capital.
The event began at 9 a.m. local time on Sept. 3, with troops marching down Chang’an Avenue, which translates to “Eternal Peace.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un were among the dignitaries in attendance, marking the first time the two leaders appeared together with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Western analysts have described the trio as an “Axis of Upheaval.”
Other attendees included Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Myanmar’s military leader Min Aung Hlaing. In total, 26 foreign leaders and about 50,000 spectators were present.
Victory Day marks the 80th anniversary of Japan’s surrender at the close of WWII. China officially designated Sept. 3 as Victory Day in 2014. This year’s parade was Xi’s third since taking office in 2012.
The 70-minute parade featured hypersonic weapons, nuclear-capable missiles, fighter jets, and underwater drones. In his speech, Xi said humanity must choose between peace and war, dialogue and confrontation.
U.S. President Donald Trump reacted in a post on Truth Social, recalling that the U.S. and China were allies against Japan during WWII. He questioned whether Xi would acknowledge America’s role in helping China resist Japan, writing: “May President Xi and the wonderful people of China have a great and lasting day of celebration. Please give my warmest regards to Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong Un, as you conspire against The United States of America.”
