On September 3, 2025, Chinese President Xi Jinping will host the country’s largest-ever military parade, marking 80 years since Japan’s defeat in World War Two. The parade is set to be a powerful display of China’s military strength and its vision for a new world order, with over 20 world leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, attending the event.
Beijing’s Show of Force
The parade, taking place in Beijing, is part of Xi Jinping’s broader strategy to position China as the leader of a new global order, one that challenges the post-World War II U.S.-led system. The event will showcase China’s latest military technology, including hypersonic missiles and drones, highlighting its growing power in the face of ongoing geopolitical shifts.
This military spectacle will be attended by prominent leaders, with Putin and Kim marking a rare multilateral appearance. Kim’s attendance, his first in over 60 years, further underscores China’s influence in global authoritarian circles. The presence of key leaders from Central and West Asia, alongside representatives from Southeast Asia, signifies China’s deepening diplomatic ties in these regions.
The “Axis of Upheaval”
The joint appearance of Xi, Putin, and Kim at the event is likely to send a strong message to the West. Known as the “Axis of Upheaval,” this group defies the U.S.-led global order and presents an alternative model of governance. As U.S. President Donald Trump retreats from international institutions and escalates trade wars, China’s increasing diplomatic and military might presents itself as a challenge to the West’s dominance.
Xi’s call for a more equal, multipolar world has been echoed in recent speeches, where he stressed the importance of promoting a “correct historical perspective” of World War Two. China and Russia have both criticized Western narratives that downplay their contributions to defeating fascism.
The Costs of Patriotic Displays
The parade, which comes at a staggering cost of approximately $5 billion, has sparked some controversy. Taiwanese officials have raised concerns about the huge expenditure, which they argue could have been better used to improve the lives of ordinary Chinese citizens. The costs involved in staging such a grand event have sparked online debates, with some suggesting that the money could be better spent elsewhere.
Despite this, the government has ramped up efforts to ensure public enthusiasm, with some areas reporting a surge in military-themed enthusiasm, even leading to patriotic haircuts in anticipation of the event. However, the security measures in downtown Beijing have created disruptions, and thousands of volunteers have been mobilized to monitor for any signs of dissent ahead of the parade.
Looking Ahead
As the parade unfolds, it will not only serve as a demonstration of China’s growing military power but also as a reminder of its determination to shape the future of global geopolitics. With Xi’s leadership, China is positioning itself to lead a new world order, moving away from U.S. influence and advocating for a system that reflects a multipolar, more balanced global governance.
