Russia and China Deepen Strategic Ties Amid Victory Day Celebrations
- The New York Editorial Desk - Arif
- May 9
- 2 min read
Tone & Political Bias: Moderately Left-Leaning
Why: The coverage emphasizes critiques of authoritarianism, highlights opposition voices, and underscores concerns about historical revisionism and global power dynamics.
Moscow Hosts Grand Victory Day Parade
On May 9, 2025, Russia marked the 80th anniversary of its victory over Nazi Germany with a large-scale military parade in Moscow’s Red Square. The parade featured advanced weaponry, including drones and nuclear-capable missiles. Leaders from China, Brazil, and other Global South nations were in attendance.
Chinese President Xi Jinping was the event’s chief guest. This was his 11th visit to Russia, highlighting the strong relationship between Moscow and Beijing at a time of worsening ties with Western powers.
Russia-China Strategic Partnership Strengthened
During Xi’s visit, Presidents Putin and Xi signed a strategic partnership agreement aimed at strengthening cooperation across multiple sectors, including defense, economy, and foreign policy. The agreement reflected shared grievances against U.S. dominance and called for a more multipolar world order.
In a joint statement, both leaders criticized the expansion of U.S.-led NATO activity in the Asia-Pacific and denounced unilateral sanctions that are imposed without United Nations backing. Russia reaffirmed its support for China’s stance on Taiwan, signaling stronger geopolitical alignment.
Global Reactions and Notable Absences
Leaders from Western nations were noticeably absent from the Moscow event, reflecting Russia’s increasing isolation due to its invasion of Ukraine. However, countries such as Brazil, Venezuela, and Serbia were represented, showing support from some parts of the Global South.
Heightened security measures were observed across Moscow due to recent Ukrainian drone attacks. Airport operations were disrupted, and internet access was restricted during the celebrations.
Criticism from Opposition Figures
Russian opposition leaders living in exile condemned President Putin for using World War II commemorations to legitimize his policies and the ongoing war in Ukraine. Maximilian Andronnikov, a leader in the Freedom of Russia Legion, accused the Kremlin of using fascist tactics and manipulating historical narratives.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and senior officials also denounced the parade as a propaganda effort. They rejected Moscow’s short-term ceasefire proposal, instead expressing support for a broader 30-day truce put forward by the United States.
Reinforcement of Historical Narratives
Russia and China used the Victory Day platform to reinforce their historical worldviews and promote nationalistic themes. Xi’s participation in the parade was framed as a powerful symbol of a united front against Western influence.
Both leaders emphasized their countries’ roles in defeating fascism during World War II. They portrayed themselves as responsible global actors countering what they described as unilateralism and historical revisionism by the West.
The event served as a public affirmation of the deepening alliance between the two powers amid shifting global dynamics.
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