The parade marking 80 years since Japan’s defeat doubled as a diplomatic platform.
Putin and Xi lauded their bond, sealing long-horizon energy and cooperation deals.
Kim Jong-un’s arrival with Kim Ju-ae focused attention on Pyongyang’s role in emerging alignments.
Putin’s meeting with Robert Fico highlighted the EU’s internal contradictions over Ukraine and energy.
Visa-free travel for Russians and trilateral signaling with Mongolia extended the week’s message beyond optics.
Victory Day, Strategic Day: Beijing Uses Ceremony to Cement Alliances
