Key takeaways

• Three leaders—China’s Xi, Russia’s Putin and North Korea’s Kim—paraded together in Beijing.
• Their joint appearance underlines a new China alliance with two unpredictable neighbors.
• In response, Japan, Australia and the Philippines boosted security ties in the Pacific.
• Europe and the US warned of an “authoritarian bloc” and moved closer on trade and defense.
• The China alliance risks backfiring by pushing many countries to side against Beijing.

On September 3, 2025, China hosted a grand parade in Beijing. President Xi walked with Russian President Putin and North Korean leader Kim. The show aimed to send a clear message: these three governments stand together. Moreover, China wanted to signal that it can build its own world order. Yet, many observers note that this China alliance may create as many problems as it solves for Beijing.

What happened in Beijing?

China chose its 80th anniversary of victory over Japan for the parade. Xi took center stage with Putin and Kim in Tiananmen Square. The gathering held huge symbolic value. First, it pointed to deeper ties between Beijing, Moscow and Pyongyang. Second, it stressed their shared rivalry with the West. Finally, it left little doubt China will back Russia’s ideas on global security and honor North Korea’s nuclear status.

Why the China alliance alarms other countries

Right after the parade, Japan and Australia agreed to deepen their security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. Then Japan and the Philippines launched a deal letting their armies operate on each other’s soil. These pacts aim to check what they see as Chinese aggression. In Europe, leaders called the parade an authoritarian challenge. The EU’s top diplomat warned of a new bloc that threatens free trade and global rules. Meanwhile, the US and some EU nations plan tougher trade measures and more joint military drills.

Reactions in Europe and the United States

European officials fear this China alliance will tie them closer to Russia’s war in Ukraine. They worry Beijing may supply Moscow with more resources. As a result, the EU may raise tariffs on Chinese goods or diversify its imports. In Washington, President Trump praised the parade’s pageantry but slammed the trio’s “secret plot.” He urged European allies to add trade pressure on China. Thus, the once-fraying transatlantic ties could regain strength to counter this emerging bloc.

Responses in Asia

In South Korea, many worry that Beijing’s backing of Kim Jong Un undermines denuclearization efforts. The current government had favored a balanced stance toward China and North Korea. Yet this parade may force Seoul to lean back into a stronger U.S. alliance. At the same time, Japan’s new leaders once sought friendlier ties with Beijing. However, they now face growing pressure to harden their stance. Japan’s military drills with the US and the Philippines will likely grow in frequency and scope.

Risks for China

By embracing two isolated regimes, Beijing limits its own freedom. It binds Xi closer to unpredictable partners on China’s northeast border. Moreover, this China alliance weakens China’s image as a neutral global mediator. It also heightens distrust in Europe and Asia. Economists warn that any EU trade sanctions could slow China’s export growth. Diplomats note that many countries now view Beijing less as a partner, more as a challenger. In short, the parade’s grand show may backfire on China’s broader goals.

What comes next?

In mid-September, South Korea, Japan and the US will hold annual drills. They will practice countering missile threats and nuclear attacks. At the same time, the US-Indonesia and US-Philippines naval exercises will expand. These moves form a growing network of partnerships aimed at balancing China’s rising power. Looking ahead, Beijing must decide whether the short-term PR boost outweighs the long-term cost of alienating key neighbors and trading partners.

FAQs

Why did China bring Putin and Kim to its parade?

China wanted to showcase solidarity with two important neighbors. It aimed to underline a shared stance against Western influence. The event also highlighted China’s rising role in global politics.

How did regional countries respond to the parade?

Japan, Australia and the Philippines quickly deepened their defense ties. South Korea and the US readied new military exercises. European leaders warned of an authoritarian bloc and considered trade measures.

Could this China alliance affect world trade?

Yes. The EU may launch new anti-dumping measures against Chinese goods. Likewise, the US might boost tariffs or restrict investments. Countries will likely seek to diversify away from China.

Is Beijing likely to change course after these reactions?

China may weigh its growing isolation. Yet, Xi seems committed to close ties with Russia and North Korea. Any shift will depend on how badly China feels the economic and diplomatic cost.