Victory Day 2025: When History Gets a Makeover and Alliances Get Cozier
Ah, Victory Day in Moscow—a time-honored tradition where tanks roll, flags wave, and history gets a fresh coat of paint. This year, the spectacle was graced by none other than China’s President Xi Jinping, making his 11th pilgrimage to the Kremlin since 2013. Because, as they say, the couple that rewrites history together, stays together.
The Dynamic Duo’s Declaration
In a joint statement that could only be described as a masterclass in diplomatic finger-pointing, Xi and Russian President Vladimir Putin pledged to deepen their “no limits” partnership. They accused “certain countries”—a subtle nod to the United States and its allies—of attempting to “tamper with the results of the victory of the Second World War.”
Because nothing says “respecting history” like accusing others of rewriting it while simultaneously revising it yourself.
Taiwan: The Uninvited Guest
Xi took the opportunity to assert that the end of World War II marked Taiwan’s “return” to China, reinforcing Beijing’s claim over the island. Russia, ever the supportive partner, nodded along in agreement. Because when you’re busy accusing others of historical revisionism, it’s best to have a united front in your own historical reinterpretations.
Military Musings and Parade Pageantry
The joint statement wasn’t all about history lessons. It also highlighted the growing military cooperation between the two nations, boasting about 14 joint exercises in 2024. To top it off, a Chinese honor guard participated in Moscow’s military parade for the first time since 2015. Because nothing says “peaceful intentions” like synchronized marching and displays of military might.
A Parade of Unity… and Contrasts
While Moscow was busy showcasing its military prowess and diplomatic camaraderie, European leaders were making their own statements. French President Emmanuel Macron and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced a new bilateral cooperation and security treaty, while Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited Brussels to reiterate support for Ukraine. Meanwhile, British Foreign Minister David Lammy visited Lviv alongside 17 other ministers to reinforce support for Ukraine.
Because nothing says “we’re not impressed” like holding your own events to counter someone else’s.
The Takeaway
In a world where alliances shift and history is a malleable concept, China and Russia have found common ground in their shared narratives and mutual critiques of the West. Their partnership, solidified on Victory Day, serves as a reminder that in geopolitics, as in life, the stories we tell often say more about us than the facts themselves.
