Kim skips Russian military parade as Xi visits for high-stakes summit

North Korea's Kim Jong-un will not be attending Russia's Victory Day celebration this week but Chinese President Xi Jinping is scheduled to do so.

Our correspondent Kim Jung-sil covers the implications of this reality.

In the heart of Moscow, Russia is preparing for a highly symbolic Victory Day—marking 80 years since the end of World War II.

But this year's event is unfolding under a different kind of pressure: the ongoing war in Ukraine.

The commemorations run from May 8 to 11, with the annual military parade set for Friday in Red Square.

29 world leaders are expected, and military units from 13 countries—including China—will join Russian troops in the parade.

But one leader who won't be attending is North Korea's Kim Jong-un.

Pyongyang is expected to send its ambassador in Moscow, Shin Hong-chol, in his place.

Though the North has confirmed support for Russian forces against Ukraine, its troops won't join the parade.

"There was simply no realistic way for Kim to get there. North Korea has no aircraft for the trip, and going by train would take several days."

Another possible factor may involve Chinese President Xi Jinping, who is now confirmed to attend.

"Given that President Xi Jinping is the most prominent guest at this year's event, it's possible that Kim Jong-un chose to stay away to avoid being overshadowed."

Professor Lim added that Kim's absence may also reflect lingering tensions in North Korea's relationship with China.

Meanwhile, Xi Jinping is stepping into the spotlight.

His visit will include a summit with President Putin, expected to reaffirm the two countries' growing strategic partnership.

"I'd like to highlight that Russia and China's comprehensive partnership and strategic interaction are now at the highest level in history."

Analysts say the summit is expected to focus on long-term economic ties and strategic coordination, as both countries face growing pressure from the West.

As China draws closer and North Korea pulls back, this year's Victory Day underscores a shifting power dynamic in Northeast Asia—less about history, and more about strategy.

Kim Jung-sil, Arirang News.