Xi Signals Diplomatic Dominance Ahead of Summit with Putin and Kim

Chinese President Xi Jinping is asserting control over the geopolitical narrative, positioning himself as the pivotal powerbroker amid mounting global tensions. At the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin, Xi is orchestrating a gathering of Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un, a strategic move that highlights his growing influence.

The summit culminates in Beijing’s highly publicised “Victory Day” military parade, commemorating the 80th anniversary of World War II’s end. It will feature a rare joint appearance by Xi, Putin, and Kim, underscoring China’s role as a central axis in reshaping international alliances.

The event sends a clear signal: Xi holds sway in bringing together two of Washington’s most contentious rivals, while Trump remains conspicuously absent. This diplomatic choreography serves to subtly challenge U.S. global influence.

By hosting both Putin and Kim, Xi reinforces China’s dominance within non-Western coalitions and showcases its increasing diplomatic and military clout. His ability to convene this high-profile trio without reciprocal outreach to the U.S. leader illustrates how he is setting the stage on his terms.

Observers perceive this as a decisive moment in the multipolar rebalancing of power—one where Trump finds himself sidelined amid a new era of Sino-centric alignment.

Sources: The Washington Post, The Guardian, BBC News, Al Jazeera.