Beijing was transformed on Wednesday into a stage for one of the most elaborate Chinese military parades in recent memory, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, an event China has sought to use to drum up nationalism.
In a meticulously choreographed spectacle, fighter jets streaked overhead, tanks rumbled down Chang’an Avenue, and thousands of goose-stepping troops marched across Tiananmen Square. Here are parade highlights, in photos.
Xi Jinping, China’s leader, inspecting the troops from a state limousine.
A choir and a military band performed.
An unmanned aerial vehicle.
Military aircraft flying in formation.
Soldiers holding flags during the parade.
Medals adorning the uniforms of military veterans at the parade.
A screen showed Mr. Xi with President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia and Kim Jong-un of North Korea.
Soldiers marching in formation.
Balloons and doves were released into the air at the end of the parade.