Beijing- North Korean leader Kim Jong Un will join Russian president Vladimir Putin and China’s leader Xi Jinping at a military parade in Beijing, a rare and symbolic moment that underscores Xi’s growing diplomatic reach.

For Xi, it is more than a commemoration of Japan’s surrender in World War Two. It is a display of Chinese power and influence at a time when he wants to project Beijing as both an economic and diplomatic heavyweight.

The parade comes as Xi prepares to host Putin, while the United States struggles to push Moscow toward ending the war in Ukraine. At the same time, Kim’s presence is significant. It is his first appearance at a Chinese parade since 1959, reaffirming ties with Beijing despite speculation he was moving closer to Moscow.

Kim’s reliance on China is deep, with Beijing providing nearly 90% of North Korea’s food imports. Standing alongside Xi and Putin not only gives him legitimacy but also highlights Xi’s ability to shape conversations around both North Korea and Russia.

The timing also matters for Washington. President Donald Trump has suggested he wants another meeting with Kim after past summits ended without progress. The White House has signaled Trump may travel to the region in October for possible talks with Xi, with trade disputes, tariffs, and even TikTok on the agenda.

China has tried to appear neutral on the Ukraine war but is accused by the US and allies of quietly aiding Russia. Xi’s meetings with both Putin and Kim position him as a central player who could influence future negotiations.

For Trump, any talks with Xi will now involve a leader who already has the ear of both Putin and Kim, giving Beijing added leverage. Some even wonder if a meeting involving all four leaders could be on the horizon.