Chris Hughes, the Daily Mirror’s Defence and Security Editor, received the Specialist Journalist of the Year award in 2013 at the UK Press Awards. With firsthand reporting experience from conflict zones like Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, and Ukraine, as well as coverage of global terror attacks such as 9/11, his insights can be found on Substack.
China’s recent military parade went beyond honoring its wartime efforts, showcasing precise marching formations, advanced weaponry like missiles and new armaments, and armored vehicles to demonstrate its military prowess.
The parade also symbolized unity among authoritarian leaders like Kim Jong-un of North Korea and Vladimir Putin of Russia, sending a clear message of defiance towards the US and the West, particularly in response to perceived economic pressure under the leadership of Donald Trump.
During the event, Putin referred to Xi as a “dear friend,” emphasizing the strong strategic ties between China and Russia. This gesture was strategically aimed at undercutting Trump’s authority and elevating the status of China, Russia, and their allies on the global stage.
The presence of Xi, Putin, and Kim together at the ceremony highlighted the strengthening bonds among the three leaders, signaling China’s increasing influence in the regional military and economic landscape with Russia and North Korea as key allies.
In response, Trump expressed discontent, suggesting that the meeting was a concerted effort to undermine the US. Analysts like Prof Glees from the University of Buckingham viewed the gathering as a significant step in China’s pursuit of global leadership, with Russia and North Korea aligning to challenge Western dominance.
Xi’s remarks underscored China’s commitment to peace but also hinted at its resolve to defend its interests against any perceived threats, particularly towards the US. The historical significance of China’s wartime sacrifices was also invoked, emphasizing its role in countering external aggression.
While Kim Jong-un’s presence was noted, Putin emerged as a prominent figure at the event, leveraging his relationships with China and North Korea to bolster his political standing amid challenges in Ukraine and economic uncertainties.
Putin’s narrative of Russia’s WWII sacrifices has been manipulated to justify his actions in Ukraine, falsely alleging fascist influence in the country. Meanwhile, China’s strategic moves, including potential actions towards Taiwan, indicate its aspirations to rival the US both militarily and economically in the near future.
Overall, the military parade highlighted the shifting dynamics in global power relations, with China, Russia, and North Korea positioning themselves as formidable players on the international stage, setting the stage for potential geopolitical tensions in the future.