
Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomed Russian leader Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un ahead of a major military parade in Beijing. The three exchanged brief words as they approached the ceremony site, walking down the red carpet and heading toward the gate of the Forbidden City.
From the gallery, directly above the portrait of Mao Zedong, Xi and his guests watched the military parade marking the 80th anniversary of victory in World War II, with a line of soldiers marching on the red carpet.
"The world faces a choice between peace and war. China represents a force for peace and development. No bully can intimidate us," Xi Jinping said in his opening speech at the military parade.
Xi then inspected thousands of soldiers from various branches of the Chinese military gathered on Changan Avenue in central Beijing. A range of new military equipment was also unveiled, including: a new nuclear-powered intercontinental ballistic missile, a new hypersonic weapons delivery missile, a new laser weapon and even 'robotic dog' drones.
The ceremony ended with a double handshake between Xi and Putin.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump wrote on his social media platform during the Victory Parade in Beijing:
"The big question is whether or not Chinese President Xi will mention the great support and 'bloodshed' that the United States of America has given China to help secure its FREEDOM from a hostile foreign invader. Many Americans have died in China's pursuit of Victory and Glory. I hope they are honored and rightly remembered for their courage and sacrifice! President Xi and the wonderful Chinese people wish you a great and lasting day of celebration. Warm greetings to Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un as you plot against the United States of America."