Kim Jong Un to Join Putin, Xi at Beijing Military Parade

Kim Jong Un to Join Putin, Xi at Beijing Military Parade
Above: Female soldiers from the People's Liberation Army practice for the upcoming military parade on Aug. 20, 2025. Image copyright: Kevin Frayer/Getty Images

The Spin

Pro-China narrative

This parade highlights China's expanding global influence, as Xi unites world leaders who oppose Western dominance. It signals growing coordination among these nations outside the U.S.-led order. Simultaneously, the event underscores China's commitment to peaceful development, its resolve to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity and its increasing capacity to contribute to global peace and stability.

Anti-China narrative

The Chinese military parade exposes a troubling alliance among heavily sanctioned regimes, posing a threat to global stability and Western interests. These authoritarian leaders are forming an "Axis of Upheaval," designed to challenge international law and democratic principles. Their public show of solidarity signals coordinated efforts to undermine the existing global order and established norms.

Metaculus Prediction



The Controversies



Establishment split

CRITICAL

PRO



© 2025 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.15.1

© 2025 Improve the News Foundation.

All rights reserved.

Version 6.15.1