North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin will attend a major military parade in Beijing on September 3, 2025, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. The event, hosted by China, marks Japan’s formal surrender and serves as a historical tribute as well as a display of military power and geopolitical signaling.
Historical and Geopolitical Significance
The parade commemorates Victory Day and symbolizes a collective remembrance of World War II’s conclusion. However, beyond its historic importance, the attendance of Kim and Putin underscores the alignment of China, Russia, and North Korea in opposition to Western influence, primarily that of the United States and its allies. This event highlights the growing strategic partnership among these nations in light of increasing global tensions.
Diplomatic Importance for Kim Jong Un
For Kim Jong Un, this visit marks his first trip to China since 2019 and his first participation at a major international summit event since assuming power. North Korea regards China as its most important trading partner and ally, especially amid ongoing sanctions due to Pyongyang’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Kim’s attendance is a diplomatic gesture reinforcing his regime’s ties with China and signaling North Korea’s role as a key player in this axis of power.
Putin’s Strategic Display Amid Sanctions
Putin’s presence at the parade also carries significant weight. Russia faces severe economic sanctions following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine and is increasingly reliant on alliances with China and North Korea. This will be Putin’s first joint public appearance with Kim and Chinese President Xi Jinping, projecting unity among sanctioned nations. Russia considers China a crucial strategic partner as it faces isolation from Western powers.
Parade Highlights and Participants
The parade will be one of the largest in recent years, showcasing thousands of troops, advanced military technology including fighter jets, missile defense systems, and hypersonic weapons. Alongside Kim, Putin, and Xi Jinping, 26 foreign heads of state and government are expected, including leaders from Belarus, Iran, Indonesia, Serbia, and South Korea’s National Assembly speaker. The event notably excludes most Western leaders, with Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico the only representative from the West.
Regional and Global Implications
China, Russia, and North Korea’s joint participation signals a shared defiance against Western pressure and sanctions. The alliance aims to strengthen the Global South bloc as an alternative to Western-dominated global institutions. China’s continued economic and military support to North Korea and Russia emphasizes its role as a linchpin in this emerging geopolitical axis.
Conclusion
The 2025 Beijing military parade stands as both a commemorative event and a strategic demonstration of international alliances. The presence of Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin alongside Xi Jinping vividly announces a united front among China, Russia, and North Korea amid global power shifts. This display of solidarity at a high-profile military parade underscores the evolving relations and shared interests of these nations as they navigate a complex and polarized world order.