Massive Military Parade in China Commemorates 80th Anniversary of WWII Victory
China hosted a grand military parade on Wednesday, commemorating the 80th anniversary of its victory over Japan in World War II. The event, held at Tiananmen Square in Beijing, showcased China's advanced weaponry and was attended by several world leaders, including North Korea's Kim Jong-un and Russia's Vladimir Putin. The spectacle triggered mixed political reactions both locally and globally, and was seen as a demonstration of China's growing military strength and its rising global leadership status.
Background and Context
The parade marked a significant moment in Chinese history, symbolizing the end of Japanese occupation in 1945 and honoring the country's wartime sacrifices. It was only the second time Beijing held a Victory Day parade, the first taking place a decade ago. The event was initiated by Chinese Premier Li Qiang and was the largest in the history of China, involving over 10,000 people, hundreds of planes, and military vehicles.
Key Developments and Details
In a show of strength, China's honor guards carried the next-generation QBZ-191 rifles, described as the Transformers of the rifle world
. The parade also marked the debut of China's Aerospace and Cyberspace Forces, and showcased the new generation of tanks and improved versions of its hypersonic missiles, the YJ-21 and DF-17. China's H-6N strategic bombers were seen flying over Tiananmen Square, further emphasizing the county's military prowess.
The presence of world leaders, particularly Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin, was seen as a significant aspect of the event. It was Kim's first visit to China in more than six years, and his presence could signal a broader strategic realignment and reinvigorated ties between Beijing and Pyongyang.
Implications and Reactions
The parade sparked mixed reactions globally. In the United States, former President Donald Trump accused the attending leaders of conspiring against the U.S. He wrote on Truth Social, Many Americans died in China’s quest for Victory and Glory. I hope they are rightfully honored and remembered for their bravery and sacrifice! May President Xi and the wonderful people of China have a great and lasting day of celebration
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The event was also live-streamed in Taiwan, reigniting long-running disputes over history, identity, and cross-straight security. The reactions ranged from admiration for the advanced weapons on display to criticism of Beijing for claiming credit for victory.
Conclusion
The military parade in Beijing was a significant show of force by China, showcasing its advanced weaponry and hosting a gathering of world leaders. The event served as a reminder of China's military might, historical significance, and its rising global status. However, the event also stirred up mixed reactions and political debates both domestically and internationally.