Beijing commemorated the 80th anniversary of World War II’s end Wednesday with a massive parade of goose-stepping soldiers and a display of high-tech weaponry designed to awe. Here’s what you need to know about China’s commemoration and the geopolitical alignment on display:

The parade spectacle and VIP attendance

China showcases military might with key authoritarian allies present:

The historical narrative

Xi emphasizes China’s wartime sacrifice and contribution:

The ’CRINK’ authoritarian alignment

Four powers informally aligned against global order:

The North Korean prominence

Kim Jong-un gains international stature through attendance:

The Western challenge

Experts warn of democratic retreat enabling authoritarian advance:

Read more:

• China reclaims allied role in World War II’s victory

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