Beijing is once again the center of global attention as three of the world’s most controversial leaders — Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping, and Kim Jong Un — prepare to stand shoulder to shoulder at a massive military parade.
The event, marking 80 years since the end of World War II and China’s fight against Japan, is more than just a commemoration.
It’s a display of unity among powers positioning themselves against NATO and the U.S.-led global system.
Kim Jong Un’s First Visit in Six Years
In a rare move, Kim Jong Un arrived in Beijing aboard his signature armored train, his first trip to China since 2019.
The journey began Monday in Pyongyang, with senior officials — including Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui — traveling alongside him.
South Korea’s intelligence agency confirmed the slow-moving train crossed into China on Tuesday before heading toward the capital.
For Kim, who has typically relied on his special train for visits abroad, this marks a significant moment.
It will also be the first time since taking power in 2011 that he participates in such a large-scale international gathering.
Expected Appearances and Possible Talks
Speculation is swirling about whether Kim, Putin, and Xi will hold private discussions during the visit.
For now, what is certain is that all three leaders will be present on the viewing platform in Tiananmen Square.
Kim is also expected to join them for receptions and cultural events alongside more than 20 other world leaders.
Observers say this could be Kim’s chance to strengthen ties with both Moscow and Beijing — relations that have shifted in recent years.
While North Korea has drawn closer to Russia, even supplying weapons for the war in Ukraine, its ties with China have cooled somewhat.
Putin’s Arrival and Xi’s Grand Stage
Vladimir Putin landed in China ahead of the parade and has already been active at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit.
He praised the Russia-China partnership as being at an “unprecedented level” and hinted that talks with Kim could be on the sidelines.
Xi Jinping, meanwhile, used the summit to lash out at the West, warning against “Cold War mentality” and “hegemonism.”
He emphasized building a multipolar world and pledged billions in aid, loans, and even cooperation on artificial intelligence and lunar research.
Modi Joins the Stage
Adding another layer to the gathering, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined Putin and Xi, smiling and walking hand-in-hand with the Russian leader.
The move was seen as a powerful symbol of solidarity among nations positioning themselves outside the Western orbit.
During talks, Modi stressed the enduring friendship between India and Russia, while Xi highlighted the importance of cooperation between China and India — “the dragon and the elephant” — as two of the world’s most populous nations.
Their interaction was also seen as an attempt to ease tensions after deadly border clashes in 2020.
The Military Parade and What It Signals
The climax of the week will be Beijing’s military parade, where China is expected to unveil some of its most advanced weapons, including hypersonic missiles designed to threaten naval power.
For Kim, appearing at such an event alongside Putin and Xi would be a symbolic statement — one aimed squarely at the West.
Experts say the display is not just about military might but also about reshaping alliances and sending a clear message: Moscow, Beijing, and Pyongyang are ready to stand together.
The Bigger Picture
For the West, this summit is a reminder of a shifting world order.
Russia, isolated by its war in Ukraine, has leaned heavily on China and North Korea for support.
India, though officially non-aligned, is strengthening economic ties with both Russia and China despite pressure from the U.S.
As Xi put it, the world is at a “new crossroads,” and this gathering in Beijing seems designed to show that there are alternatives to the U.S.-led system.
Whether this alliance will hold strong in practice remains to be seen, but for now, the optics are powerful — three leaders standing together in defiance of Washington.