dw.com
China, Russia, and North Korea Show United Front at Military Parade
On September 3, 2025, Chinese President Xi Jinping, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, and Russian President Vladimir Putin appeared together at a large military parade in Beijing, signaling a strengthening economic and security bloc aiming to counter US-led influence.
- What is the immediate significance of the three leaders appearing together at the military parade?
- The joint appearance of Xi, Putin, and Kim Jong-un projects an image of solidarity against international sanctions and pressure, particularly in trade. It highlights the growing influence of a bloc challenging US-led dominance. This alliance, however, is considered by analysts to be one of convenience due to differing national and international political priorities.
- How might North Korea benefit from this alliance, and what are the potential implications for China?
- North Korea, by aligning with Russia and China, potentially gains economic benefits and increased leverage in negotiations. Its closer ties with Russia, including supplying troops and weapons to the war in Ukraine, seem to have resulted in a 3.7% GDP growth in 2024, the fastest in eight years. This economic growth, fueled by cooperation with Russia, strengthens Kim Jong-un's position domestically and could fund further nuclear and missile development. This increased North Korean autonomy concerns China, its long-time ally.
- What are the potential long-term implications of this tripartite alliance, considering the evolving US-China relationship and potential changes in US policy?
- The easing of US-China trade tensions under a potential Trump administration might have a ripple effect, benefiting Russia and North Korea economically. North Korea could potentially gain further economic assistance through closer ties with the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, aligning its interests with other member states. This scenario suggests a complex interplay where shifting US policy could influence the dynamics and longevity of the China-Russia-North Korea alliance.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a balanced view by including perspectives from multiple analysts with differing opinions on the implications of the tripartite alliance. However, the headline and opening paragraph focus on the visual symbolism of the military parade, potentially emphasizing the message of solidarity over the complexities of the alliance. This framing could inadvertently downplay the potential disagreements and differing national priorities among the leaders.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and objective, using descriptive terms and avoiding loaded adjectives. The article quotes experts and presents their perspectives without editorializing. However, phrases such as "growing influence of an economic and security bloc that aims to confront what it considers US-led imperialism" could be considered slightly biased, although it accurately reflects the stated ambitions of the alliance.
Bias by Omission
While the article provides a comprehensive overview, it could benefit from including perspectives from US officials or experts on the impact of this alliance on US interests. Additionally, a more detailed analysis of the economic benefits to Russia from the alliance would provide more complete context. The article mentions economic growth in North Korea but lacks detail on the specifics of trade deals or agreements between the countries.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights economic growth in North Korea (3.7% in 2024), driven by increased cooperation with Russia. While not directly addressing inequality, this economic growth has the potential to alleviate poverty and reduce income disparities within the country, thus indirectly contributing to SDG 10. The potential for increased economic cooperation within the tripartite alliance (China, Russia, North Korea) could also lead to further economic development and reduce inequality within each nation, although this is speculative.