Xi Jinping Stands with Putin at Victory Day Parade as Ukraine Conflict Rages
Moscow’s Red Square transformed into a display of military might on Friday, as Russia commemorated the 80th anniversary of its victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. The annual Victory Day parade showcased an impressive array of Russian military hardware and personnel, while simultaneously underscoring the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Standing alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin was Chinese President Xi Jinping, a visual demonstration of the strengthening ties between the two nations amidst global tensions.
The parade featured over 11,500 troops and more than 180 military vehicles, including tanks, armored infantry vehicles, and artillery, some of which have been deployed in the war in Ukraine. Drones utilized by Russia in the conflict were also part of the display, according to reports. Putin addressed the assembled troops, praising their "courage and determination" and highlighting the "spiritual force that always has brought us victory."
The event took place against the backdrop of heightened military activity in the region. Earlier in the week, Russian flag carrier Aeroflot was forced to cancel over 100 flights to and from Moscow and delay more than 140 others due to repeated Ukrainian drone attacks on the capital. Ukrainian authorities also reported numerous Russian strikes on Friday, resulting in at least two fatalities in the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions and causing damage to infrastructure.
These strikes occurred despite a previously announced three-day ceasefire by Putin in anticipation of the Victory Day celebrations. The Kremlin stated that "all military actions are suspended for this period" and expressed hope that the Ukrainian side would reciprocate.
Adding another layer of complexity to the situation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed that he had spoken with former U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday. Zelenskyy stated that Trump had "confirmed that he wants this war to end, is ready to help, and supports the need for a ceasefire." Zelenskyy further conveyed to Trump that "Ukraine is ready for a 30-day ceasefire, starting even today" and that they were awaiting Russia’s support for the proposal. He also reiterated Ukraine’s willingness to engage in talks "in any format," but emphasized that Russia must demonstrate the seriousness of its intentions to end the war through a "full unconditional ceasefire."
The presence of Xi Jinping at the Victory Day parade carries significant symbolic weight, especially given the current international climate. The visit and public appearance next to Putin are seen by some as a signal of China’s support for Russia amid what China perceives as "international bullying," a likely reference to the trade war with the United States under the Trump administration and broader Western pressure.
Prior to the parade, Putin and Xi engaged in two rounds of talks and an informal discussion about the conflict in Ukraine, according to Chinese media. The details of these conversations remain largely undisclosed, but their occurrence underscores the importance of the Sino-Russian relationship in the context of the war.
Other notable attendees at the Victory Day parade included Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico. Fico’s presence was particularly noteworthy, as he was the only European Union leader to attend, highlighting the differing perspectives within the EU regarding relations with Russia.
Adding another dimension to the international flavor of the event, Chinese troops and contingents of soldiers from North Korea, Vietnam, and Mongolia participated in the parade, marching through Red Square alongside their Russian counterparts.
Following the parade, Putin shook hands with Russian military officers and engaged with a group of senior North Korean officers who were present as spectators, even embracing one of them. This interaction further emphasizes the growing ties between Russia and North Korea, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Last month, Putin publicly thanked North Korea for its support, acknowledging that North Korean troops were fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine. He praised their sacrifices, marking the first official confirmation of North Korean deployment in the conflict.
The Victory Day parade and the surrounding events underscore the complexities and shifting alliances in the global geopolitical landscape. While Russia commemorated its historical victory, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine casts a long shadow, with international actors navigating a delicate balance of diplomacy, economic interests, and strategic considerations. The presence of Xi Jinping, coupled with the participation of other nations, highlights the evolving dynamics of power and the increasing importance of understanding the motivations and objectives of all parties involved. The pursuit of a lasting resolution to the conflict in Ukraine remains a challenging but critical task, requiring a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying causes and fosters genuine dialogue among all stakeholders. The parade served as a reminder of past sacrifices while simultaneously underscoring the urgency of finding a path towards peace and stability in the present. The involvement of figures like Trump and Zelenskyy, even outside of official channels, demonstrates the widespread interest in a resolution and the diverse approaches being considered. The cancellation of flights and reports of strikes, despite the ceasefire announcement, highlight the fragility of the situation and the challenges in achieving a sustainable cessation of hostilities. The global implications of the conflict are undeniable, and the search for a peaceful resolution remains a top priority for the international community.
