China Hosts Leaders of Russia, North Korea, and Iran for Military Parade in Open Challenge to Western Order
BEIJING – September 2, 2025 — In a powerful display of geopolitical alignment and military strength, Chinese President Xi Jinping is hosting the leaders of Russia, North Korea, and Iran in Beijing this week for a major military parade—marking the first time all four leaders are gathered publicly at the same global event. The gathering, timed with the 80th anniversary of Japan’s surrender in World War II, underscores China’s push to reshape the global order and project itself as a credible alternative to Western dominance. The event follows a multi-day summit in Tianjin with over two dozen leaders, including members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). Xi used the platform to promote an image of China as a stabilizing force amid global uncertainty—contrasting sharply with the U.S., which under President Donald Trump is realigning its foreign policies, raising tariffs, and straining global alliances. At the heart of Xi’s message: the era of Western-led world order is ending. The high-profile military parade on Beijing’s Avenue of Eternal Peace will showcase hypersonic weapons, nuclear-capable missiles, undersea drones, and thousands of PLA troops, delivering a not-so-subtle message to global rivals. Appearing alongside Xi will be Russian President Vladimir Putin, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian Together, they represent what Western analysts increasingly refer to as an “axis of upheaval” — nations aligned in their opposition to U.S. influence and values. The optics come at a sensitive time, as the U.S. faces diplomatic headwinds, growing global discontent over its trade policies, and waning trust among some allies. Though China has avoided overt military support for Russia’s war in Ukraine, Xi’s embrace of Putin signals a deliberate defiance of Western pressure. Meanwhile, North Korea has reportedly sent troops to aid Russian forces, and Iran continues supplying weapons to Moscow — raising alarm in Washington. “This is a rare, symbolic moment of quadrilateral alignment,” said Brian Hart of the Center for Strategic and International Studies. “It shows how China is willing to publicly elevate these partnerships, despite the reputational risks.” Experts say the coordinated appearances send a clear signal: China is no longer just rising — it has arrived, and it’s rewriting the rules. “Xi is unapologetically promoting an international system where U.S. leadership is no longer a given,” said Tong Zhao of the Carnegie Endowment. “He’s capitalizing on global fractures to position China as a viable alternative.” Even traditionally non-aligned leaders, like India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, appeared to embrace the moment. Modi was seen warmly interacting with Xi and Putin, just weeks after the U.S. slapped India with harsh tariffs over Russian oil imports. As tensions escalate and alliances shift, Beijing’s parade isn’t just a military event—it’s a statement of intent: the world order is changing, and China plans to lead the charge.
