Kim Jong-un and Putin Confirm Attendance at China’s V-Day Parade

UPDATE: In a significant diplomatic move, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is set to attend a military parade in Beijing on September 3, 2023, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. This rare trip abroad comes at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping and is expected to include notable attendees such as Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The parade, dubbed “China’s V-Day commemorations,” is poised to feature 26 foreign leaders, highlighting the significance of this event amidst ongoing global tensions. According to the Chinese official Xinhua News Agency, Assistant Foreign Minister Hong Lei confirmed Kim’s attendance, but details regarding his travel itinerary and duration of stay in China remain undisclosed.

This visit marks Kim’s first trip to China since 2019, indicating a potential thaw in relations as North Korea seeks to break free from its diplomatic isolation. The North Korean state media has confirmed the trip, suggesting a strategic alignment between Pyongyang and Beijing as both leaders navigate complex geopolitical landscapes.

Notably, no leaders from the United States or major Western European nations are expected to attend, primarily due to strained relations with Putin over the ongoing war in Ukraine. Kim’s presence at this event underscores his efforts to foster stronger ties with nations that challenge Western influence.

In recent years, North Korea has been increasingly vocal on international issues beyond its borders, including conflicts in the Middle East and the Taiwan Strait. With approximately 97% of North Korea’s external trade occurring with China in 2023, this visit could further solidify the economic and political partnership between the two nations, even as North Korea also seeks to bolster its cooperation with Russia.

As global observers monitor this developing situation, the implications of Kim’s attendance at the parade could reshape diplomatic dynamics in the region. The world will be watching closely to see how this visit influences North Korea’s future engagements and its stance on international relations.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.