China rolled out an elaborate display of military power in Beijing on Wednesday as it marked the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, with President Xi Jinping using the occasion to project strength at home and abroad.

Xi, joined by Russian President Vladimir Putin, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and other visiting dignitaries, presided over the parade from Tiananmen Gate. In his address, Xi honoured Chinese veterans and framed the event as part of his broader push to build a China “strong enough to stand up to foreign powers.”

“The Chinese people are not afraid of violence and are self-reliant and strong,” he declared, before warning that humanity faces a choice “between peace and war, and dialogue and confrontation.”

Over 90 minutes, the People’s Liberation Army showcased some of its most advanced weaponry, including aerial and underwater drones, hypersonic missiles, and the new DF-61 intercontinental ballistic missile, capable of carrying nuclear warheads. Fighter jets and bombers streaked across the sky, while helicopters spelled out the number “80” to mark the anniversary year. The ceremony opened with an 80-gun salute and the national anthem.

Military analysts noted the timing and symbolism of the parade. James Char of Nanyang Technological University in Singapore said China was seizing on turbulence in U.S. policy to assert itself as “a security guarantor” and fill global political and military vacuums.

The show of force drew wary reactions abroad. The U.S. voiced concern about the gathering as well as the 10-nation summit meeting on Monday that drew the presence of Xi, Putin, and Kim on the same stage.

U.S. President Donald Trump, in a message on his social media platform aimed at Xi late Tuesday, highlighted the U.S. military’s role in World War II and asked the Chinese leader to “give my warmest regards to Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong Un, as you conspire against The United States of America.” The Kremlin said that Putin was not conspiring against the U.S. and suggested Trump was being ironic in his remarks.

Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro also expressed wariness at the gathering, describing their appearance together as “intimidation” and a “threat to smaller nations.”

Xi, flanked by Putin and Kim, also shook hands with surviving World War II veterans, some older than 100, before reviewing rows of troops and equipment from a black limousine. “The People’s Liberation Army is a heroic military the people and the Party can trust and rely on completely,” he said, linking its mission to safeguarding China’s sovereignty — including its claim over Taiwan.

Taiwanese President William Lai responded from across the strait, stressing that true remembrance should not be tied to displays of force.

“Taiwan does not use the barrel of a gun to commemorate peace,” Lai said in a statement, instead calling for freedom and democracy to be upheld.