BEIJING — China held a large-scale military parade through Tiananmen Square on Wednesday to mark the 81st anniversary of Japan's defeat in the Second World War, with President Xi Jinping presiding over thousands of troops and advanced weaponry. State broadcaster CCTV carried the ceremony live.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un attended as guests of honour, according to China's foreign ministry, marking a rare joint appearance by the three leaders. Their presence underscored a deepening alignment among the three governments against Western pressure over Ukraine, sanctions and regional security.

The procession featured hypersonic missiles, drones and nuclear-capable systems. Chinese defence officials presented the hardware as evidence of the People's Liberation Army's modernisation.

Xi used his address to emphasise China's wartime sacrifices and to warn against what he described as hegemonism, echoing themes from past commemorations. The gathering drew criticism from officials in Washington, Tokyo and Brussels, who viewed the assembly of Xi, Putin and Kim as a demonstration of an emerging authoritarian bloc.

Japan's foreign ministry had previously objected to Beijing's framing of the wartime anniversary, calling it a politicisation of history. The timing coincided with heightened tensions over Taiwan, where Taiwanese forces have reinforced positions on the Penghu Islands against a possible Chinese strike.

Analysts at the International Institute for Strategic Studies said the parade was intended to project strength both domestically and toward Washington.