China proved it with a recent $35 billion show of military might. Tens of thousands of troops and an impressive display of cutting-edge weaponry marched through Tiananmen Square, aweing spectators. This grandiose performance sent an unmistakable message to the U.S. It represented a deeper strategic turning point in global alliances and power relations. The parade marked the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. In attendance were leaders from countries that have recently been sanctioned by the West.
Chinese President Xi Jinping personally presided over the key meeting. Prominent guests included Russian President Vladimir Putin, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. Analysts like to refer to this coalition an “axis of upheaval.” It points to a new, stronger alignment between countries that have historically fought against American policy tooth and nail.
A Salute to the United States
The military parade was meant to demonstrate truly formidable strength. It made the agreement a largely meaningless, costly gesture in the direction of the United States. By hosting leaders from all these sanctioned countries, Xi Jinping underscored China’s ambitions to be the alternative great power ally for repressive regimes.
“We must continue to take a clear stand against hegemonism and power politics, and practise true multilateralism,” – Xi Jinping
This language is an explicit reiteration of China’s goal to act as a counterweight to U.S. power. China’s strong relations with Russia were evident throughout the parade. Most recently, Xi signed an agreement with Putin to construct the Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline, further deepening their economic interdependence.
At the same time, China has played an important role as Iran’s sanctioned oil export buyer, buying up to 90 percent of Iran’s sanctioned oil exports. This strategic connection underscores China’s long-term strategic aim of supporting regimes that oppose U.S. policy objectives. Simultaneously, China is trying to obtain resources vital to its nationally focused economy.
Growing Influence in Asia
As a reaction to China’s growing influence, we see the United States working to strengthen alliances between countries such as the United States and India. Almost unnoticed, the international order in which many of us grew up is being radically transformed. India and China are increasingly turning to nations such as Myanmar, now under a military regime, for critical materials.
“The decline of democracy, and the increasing prevalence of authoritarianism has been a trend over the past five to 10 years,” – Henrik Stålhane Hiim
Hiim’s comments capture the spirit behind the increasing popularization of authoritarian regime governance models, with China offering an alternative route for these regimes. In tactical terms, this new development has grave implications for regional stability, but challenges the U.S.’s diplomatic efforts.
William Yang, an expert on international relations, noted that “this behaviour is only pushing these countries together to potentially form a very powerful league of resistance against the US.” As these nations unite under shared interests, their collective influence may reshape global governance structures.
The Impact of U.S.-China Relations
Former President Trump’s trade policies have been the strongest force shaping the changing U.S.-China relationship. His “America First” approach to foreign policy valued our national interests above all else, including our decades-long alliances. Because of this, experts argue that this focus has ultimately played into China’s hands and given it unique spaces to increase its global influence.
“When the US began retreating and also disrupting the rules-based international trade system, I think that naturally created an opening for China to step in,” – William Yang
As the United States recalibrates its foreign policy ambitions and priorities, the emerging alignment among our most longtime adversaries—namely, China, Iran, and Russia—brings with it incredibly complex challenges. The intricate geopolitical landscape calls for a well-calibrated course to avoid unintentional alienation of other potential allies, all while striving to counteract China’s ascending might.
