President Donald Trump expressed anger on social media Tuesday night after Chinese leader Xi Jinping hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at a major military parade in Beijing. The parade, celebrating the 80th anniversary of Japan’s defeat in World War Two, coincided with the presence of two of the world’s most controversial authoritarian leaders.
Trump posted on Truth Social: “Please give my warmest regards to Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong Un, as you conspire against The United States of America.” He also highlighted the sacrifices of Americans in the war against Japan, adding, “Many Americans died in China’s quest for Victory and Glory. I hope that they are rightfully Honored and Remembered for their Bravery and Sacrifice!”
The online tirade underscores Trump’s frustration with China’s growing influence and his own difficulties in leveraging personal relationships with global strongmen. While Trump recently met with Putin in Alaska, the summit failed to yield progress on Ukraine, as Russian attacks continue and negotiations with President Zelensky stall. Similarly, Trump’s earlier interactions with Kim failed to curb North Korea’s nuclear program.
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Analysts note that China’s dual gatherings in Tianjin and Beijing were both performative and strategic. “China is leveraging the missteps or mistakes that the US is making,” said Jackie S.H. Wong, assistant professor of international studies at the American University of Sharjah.
While the events signal coordination among US adversaries, experts caution against overestimating the threat. The Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Tianjin, which included nations like Russia, India, and others, lacks formal defense treaties or unified economic governance. Territorial tensions occasionally flare between China and India, and Moscow continues to navigate its role as a junior partner in relation to Beijing. China itself faces domestic political and economic challenges, as demonstrated by Xi Jinping’s regular purges of senior officials and military leaders.
The parade and summit highlight the limits of Trump’s “America First” approach, as well as the risks of relying on personal diplomacy with authoritarian powers. At the same time, the spectacle demonstrates China’s growing capacity to shape global perceptions and assert its influence on the international stage.
