China’s Xi Welcomes Kim and Putin, Setting Stage for Talks With Trum
Chinese President Xi Jinping is making preparations for a grand display of power on the global stage. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin are set to stand in solidarity with him at a massive military parade in Beijing on September 3. The parade is to commemorate 80 years of the conclusion of World War Two and Japan’s defeat.
The summit is not only a demonstration of military might. It is also a diplomatic success for Xi, who is demonstrating that he can get both Kim and Putin to join him at a moment when Western leaders have more or less excluded them. For Kim, the invite is particularly meaningful. A North Korean leader has not been seen at a Chinese military parade since 1959.
Trump Left Waiting on Kim
The timing of Kim’s trip is important. Just days ago, U.S. President Donald Trump said he wanted to meet Kim Jong Un again. His previous attempts at diplomacy with the North Korean leader ended without results, despite two high-profile summits. Now, while Trump waits, Kim has accepted Xi’s invitation, signaling that China may hold the stronger hand in these talks.
Xi’s move also highlights China’s influence on both Kim and Putin. While the United States is still trying to push for peace in Ukraine, Xi is hosting the very leaders who are shaping that war. This gives him leverage when he eventually sits down with Trump, possibly later this year.
China’s Balancing Act on Ukraine
Beijing has attempted to keep itself neutral on the Ukraine conflict, appealing for peace without directly taking sides. However, the U.S. and its allies blame China for assisting Russia by providing components that can be utilized in the war. On the other hand, China cannot allow itself to keep a complete distance from North Korea, considering Kim’s economy depends so heavily on Chinese imports of food and trade.
Some analysts had taken to thinking the relationship between Kim and Xi had soured in recent years, particularly as Kim had moved closer to Putin. But Kim’s visit to Beijing indicates the connection is still strong. For Xi, it is also an opportunity to demonstrate to Trump that China is still at the center of any movement with North Korea—or even towards peace in Ukraine.
The Bigger Picture
The United States and China are still in trade talks, attempting to circumvent ruinous tariffs. Another break is on, but time is almost up. Xi will wish to confront Trump with as much negotiating leverage as he can muster. By meeting Kim and Putin beforehand, Xi telegraphs that he has special leverage and access Trump lacks.
This leads to an even larger question: can there ever be a summit with Xi, Putin, Kim, and Trump in one room? For now, at least, Xi has sent the message that he will be in the middle of global diplomacy.
FAQs
1. Why is it significant that Kim Jong Un is attending Beijing?
It’s the first time since 1959 that a North Korean leader has attended a Chinese military parade.
2. How is this impacting Donald Trump?
Trump has indicated that he would like to see Kim again, but Xi meeting with him first increases China’s power.
3. What is China’s role in the Ukraine conflict?
China claims to be neutral, but America accuses China of secretly backing Russia with resources.
4. Why is the parade taking place?
The parade commemorates 80 years after the surrender of Japan in World War Two and the close of its occupation of China.
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