‘China Never Intimidated by Bullies’: Xi hits back at Trump accusations

Beijing witnessed a dramatic show of power as Chinese President Xi Jinping, flanked by Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, declared that “China is never intimidated by any bullies” — a pointed message directed at U.S. President Donald Trump.

#WATCH | China's Victory Day Parade underway in Beijing. Russian President Vladimir Putin, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and other world leaders are in attendance.

(Earlier visuals)

(Video Source: CCTV via Reuters) pic.twitter.com/A7jWNkSPxq

— ANI (@ANI) September 3, 2025

Addressing a crowd of over 50,000 at Tiananmen Square, Xi affirmed China’s ascent as a global power, declaring that “China’s rise is unstoppable.” He added that humanity faces a stark choice between “peace or war, dialogue or confrontation, win-win or zero-sum,” while stressing that the Chinese people “firmly stand on the right side of history.”
Xi’s address was followed by a sweeping 70-minute military display showcasing more than 10,000 troops and cutting-edge weapons, including missiles, tanks, drones, and fighter jets. Helicopters carrying large banners flew overhead, while the parade culminated in the release of 80,000 peace doves and colorful balloons — a spectacle heavy with symbolism and propaganda.

#WATCH | HQ-9C missiles seen in China's Victory Day Parade, in Beijing.

A version of the HQ-9 missile system has been acquired by Pakistan for its defence network. It purportedly saw action as per Pak media in Operation Sindoor, however, failed to protect Pakistani airspace… pic.twitter.com/18LiAGinCb

— ANI (@ANI) September 3, 2025

The event drew nearly two dozen world leaders seeking closer ties with Beijing amid intensifying tariff tensions with Washington. Among the most closely watched were Putin, Kim, and Iran’s president, who together projected a united front against U.S. influence. The rare image of Xi flanked by Putin and Kim at the ceremony’s outset underscored what analysts see as a direct challenge to the U.S.-led global order.

VIDEO | China: Chinese President Xi Jinping greets Russian President Vladimir Putin, North Korea’s Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un and other world leaders as they arrive at a military parade in Beijing.

(Source: Third Party)

(Full video available on PTI Videos -… pic.twitter.com/GQR39YGFIx

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 3, 2025

Meanwhile, Donald Trump lashed out in a fiery Truth Social post, accusing Xi, Putin, and Kim of conspiring against the United States. He reminded Xi of America’s sacrifices in World War II, writing: “The big question to be answered is whether or not President Xi of China will mention the massive amount of support and ‘blood’ that The United States of America gave to China in order to help it to secure its FREEDOM. Many Americans died in China’s quest for Victory and Glory.”
Trump went on to add: “I hope that they are rightfully Honored and Remembered for their Bravery and Sacrifice! May President Xi and the wonderful people of China have a great and lasting day of celebration.”However, he ended on a sharply critical note, saying: “Please give my warmest regards to Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong Un, as you conspire against The United States of America.”