In a significant diplomatic display, China welcomed numerous international leaders this past week, showcasing its growing global influence. President Xi Jinping's military parade in Beijing coincided with the 80th anniversary of Japan's defeat in World War II. The event featured notable guests, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, highlighting China's strategic partnerships.

The parade served as a reminder of historical alliances formed during World War II, when the United States, the Soviet Union, and pre-Maoist China united against imperial Japan. This collaboration was crucial in shaping post-war geopolitics. However, the dynamics have shifted dramatically since then. In the 1970s, U.S. President Richard Nixon's visit to China was pivotal in breaking the diplomatic isolation of the communist nation, a move that was deemed necessary to prevent a powerful alliance between China and the Soviet Union.

Fast forward to today, the geopolitical landscape is marked by new challenges. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has raised questions about the relationships between major powers. President Trump has faced criticism for his approach to Russia, particularly regarding his reluctance to take decisive actions against Putin. While Trump has threatened consequences for Russia, including imposing tariffs on imports from India to pressure it into reducing its oil purchases from Russia, the effectiveness of these measures remains uncertain.

The Shanghai summit and the military parade in Beijing suggest that both China and India may not be inclined to leverage their influence over Russia to halt its aggression in Ukraine. This raises critical questions about the extent of their power and willingness to act in the current geopolitical climate. As tensions continue to escalate, the international community watches closely to see how these relationships will evolve and what impact they will have on global stability.