China Hold 80th WWII Anniversary Military Parade in Beijing, Taiwan Warns Participants

China is preparing a large military parade in Beijing on September 3 to mark the 80th anniversary of its victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the end of World War II. As part of the event, China has invited residents of Taiwan to attend the parade, framing it as a patriotic opportunity to promote national reunification. However, Taiwan’s government strongly discourages participation, threatening penalties for officials who attend and warning Taiwanese entertainers working in mainland China to avoid supporting Chinese propaganda or remarks that undermine Taiwan's sovereignty. At least 20 Taiwanese entertainers are currently under investigation for reposting Chinese state media content or echoing pro-unification statements, reflecting rising cross-strait tensions and concerns over Beijing’s influence operations. China’s Taiwan Affairs Office, meanwhile, continues to support cross-strait cultural exchanges and defends the position that many Taiwanese are part of the Chinese nation. The military parade will also be observed by Chinese leader Xi Jinping and foreign leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin.