The world is watching a new great game unfold in Beijing, with a powerful global alignment taking shape. Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, met and declared their relationship to be at an “unprecedentedly high level,” with Putin calling Xi a “dear friend.” The two leaders are in Beijing for a massive Victory Day military parade, an event that has attracted dozens of world leaders, signaling a powerful alignment against Western-led institutions.
The parade, which commemorates the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Japan in World War II, is a powerful symbol of this new alliance. It is set to feature a grand display of military might, including marching formations, tanks, and fighter jets. With dozens of world leaders in attendance, the event is seen as a clear signal of a collective desire to build an alternative to the current international system. This show of unity and strength is a direct message to the world about a new geopolitical reality.
Adding another layer of intrigue, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un made a significant arrival by armored train, accompanied by his daughter, Kim Ju-ae, in her first international appearance. Her presence has sparked widespread speculation about her future role and the deepening ties between Pyongyang, Beijing, and Moscow. A Kremlin aide’s suggestion that a meeting between Putin and Kim could be on the horizon only adds to the diplomatic buzz, hinting at a potential trilateral alliance.
The strategic talks have also yielded concrete economic outcomes. A major deal was finalized for the Power of Siberia 2 pipeline, which will provide China with up to 50 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually for three decades. This landmark energy agreement strengthens their economic interdependence and provides long-term stability for both nations. In a reciprocal move, China also granted visa-free travel to Russian citizens, a policy set to begin on September 15.
As the parade preparations continue, a broader regional strategy is also taking shape. Chinese President Xi Jinping underscored the importance of closer cooperation between China, Russia, and Mongolia, signaling a unified vision for regional stability and economic growth. The events unfolding in Beijing are not isolated incidents but rather part of a larger, coordinated effort to re-draw the global map and forge a new geopolitical reality.