Side-by-side: Putin holds talks with Kim Jong Un as China unveils new weapons in huge military parade
Xi Jinping hosted Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un for talks in Beijing on Tuesday - as the trio attended China's biggest ever military parade showcasing the country's newest weapons.
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The Chinese President invited the Russian and North Korean leaders to the huge Victory Day parade marking the 80th anniversary of the end of Second World War.
Speaking to 50,000 people gathered in Tiananmen Square, the Xi said in a brief address that he pays his "highest respect to the veterans" who fought in the conflict.
"We defeated the Japanese military invaders for the first time in history," the Chinese president added.
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"It is an important part of our history, and we made our contribution to saving the people, defending peace, and ensuring victory."
In pointed remarks, Xi added: "All the countries and nations should look after each other and help each other, then we can avoid the repetition of tragedy."
He then said the "rejuvenation" of China and its people is "unstoppable".
Some of China's newest military equipment was on display, some of which has never been seen publicly before.
It included China’s DF-5C intercontinental ballistic missile, according to the Xinhua news agency, as well as the latest generation of China’s Dongfeng nuclear-capable missile.
Next-gen fighters, miniature submarines and drones were also featured in the powerful showing of force.
After his remarks, Xi then rode in an open top limousine to take the salute from gathered troops and in view of a wide-range of military hardware.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un and Russian president Vladimir Putin were pictured with Xi entering the parade before the trio met for talks.
After saying earlier in the day that China "needs the United States more than we need them", US President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to sarcastically send regards to the triumvirate of rival nations.
Writing on the platform that he owns, Trump wrote: "The big question to be answered is whether or not President Xi of China will mention the massive amount of support and “blood” that The United States of America gave to China in order to help it to secure its FREEDOM from a very unfriendly foreign invader.
"Many Americans died in China’s quest for Victory and Glory. I hope that they are rightfully Honored and Remembered for their Bravery and Sacrifice!
"May President Xi and the wonderful people of China have a great and lasting day of celebration."
Trump signed the message off with a frosty remark about the gathering of leaders, saying: "Please give my warmest regards to Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong Un, as you conspire against The United States of America. PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP".
