The largest military parade in China's history took place in Beijing, reflecting the formation of a new geopolitical alliance aimed at countering the Western world.
Chinese President Xi Jinping not only showcased his country's military might but also gathered around him leaders of countries that are under international sanctions – President of Russia Vladimir Putin and North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un, reports the BBC.
The symbolism of the event was evident: for the first time, all three leaders appeared in public together, which experts view as a demonstrative challenge to the West and the administration of Donald Trump. Representatives from over two dozen countries of the 'global South' participated in the parade, while representatives of leading Western democracies, including the US, completely ignored the event.
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'The fact that Chairman Xi Jinping welcomed North Korean leader Kim Jong Un with a prolonged handshake, and then shook hands with President of Russia Vladimir Putin, before all three went to watch the parade, was pure political theater,' noted BBC correspondent Laura Bicker.
The military demonstration was impressive in its scale. China showcased its latest weaponry, including the next-generation intercontinental ballistic missile DF-5C, hypersonic missiles YJ-19, and the anti-satellite air defense system HQ-29. According to BBC military analyst Pavel Aksyonov, this weaponry is 'too powerful for local conflicts' and represents a 'direct challenge to the United States' on a global level.
The parade in Beijing indicates the formation of a new geopolitical alliance, which may adversely affect Western countries and alter power balances in the world. The participation of the leaders of China, Russia, and North Korea indicates their readiness to jointly counter Western influence. Increased military activity in this region could have serious consequences for the entire world.