Daniel Andrews Sparks Outrage by Standing Next to Putin & Kim Jong-Un at China Parade

Former Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has once again stepped into controversy. On 1 September 2025, Andrews was seen at China’s grand military parade in Beijing, standing close to Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un. The photos and videos from the event spread quickly online and sparked a heated debate in Australia.

For many Australians, especially communities with personal memories of war and dictatorship, the image felt shocking and painful. Critics accused Andrews of helping authoritarian propaganda, while his supporters argued that this was about diplomacy and respect. The story is now one of the most talked-about political debates in the country.

What Exactly Happened in Beijing?

The parade was organised by China to mark 80 years since the end of World War II. It was a massive show of strength with tanks, missiles, drones, and thousands of soldiers. Leaders from countries aligned with China attended the event.

Daniel Andrews, no longer a serving politician, was invited as a special guest. During the ceremony, he was spotted shaking hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping and standing very close to Putin and Kim. The pictures of this moment soon became headlines.

What was meant to be a symbolic event turned into a controversy because of the strong political meaning behind the image. While some countries kept their distance from China’s parade, Andrews’ presence made many Australians question his judgement.

Why Are People Angry?

The main reason for anger is the company Andrews was seen with.

• Vladimir Putin is currently leading a war in Ukraine that has caused thousands of deaths.

• Kim Jong-Un is the leader of one of the most closed and repressive regimes in the world.

• Xi Jinping is China’s powerful leader who is often criticised for human rights issues.

Standing next to these leaders was seen by critics as “sending the wrong message.” Many asked: Why would a former Australian Premier put himself in such a position?

Groups like the Ukrainians in Victoria were the first to condemn him. They called his act “a betrayal” and accused him of disrespecting the victims of Russia’s war. Social media also exploded with criticism, with people calling him a “propaganda pawn.”

Political Reactions in Australia

The outrage was not just from community groups. Politicians also joined the debate.

• Former Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk called it “a bridge too far.”

• Liberal Party leaders described Andrews as “a useful idiot for dictators.”

• Some Labor MPs also said his actions were harmful to Australia’s image.

Even though Andrews is no longer in office, his public image still affects political discussions. His appearance has now created divisions inside his own party as well.

What Did Andrews’ Supporters Say?

Not everyone is against Andrews. His successor, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan, defended him, saying:

“It shows that Victoria is respected internationally. It is good that Andrews is seen as someone valued by Chinese leaders.”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also gave a mild response. He said Australia was represented officially by a diplomat, not by Andrews, and that the government had no direct involvement in his visit. This was seen as a way of calming the situation without creating bigger diplomatic tensions.

Emotional Side of the Story

For many Australians with links to Ukraine, Korea, and China, this issue is more than just politics.

• Ukrainian Australians feel deeply hurt seeing their former Premier near Putin at a time when bombs are falling in Kyiv.

• Korean Australians see Kim Jong-Un as a dictator who has destroyed freedom in their homeland.

• For Chinese Australians, the feelings are mixed—some see pride in China’s global power, while others see fear of its political control.

This is why the photo of Andrews is not just about one man but about how people see justice, history, and morality in today’s world.

Victorian Labor Premier Dan Andrews stands on stage at a Chinese military parade alongside Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping and Kim Jong Un.

Probably the most disgraceful thing ever done by a Labor politician in Australian history. pic.twitter.com/bqYTx2Ssb1

— Drew Pavlou 🇦🇺🇺🇸🇺🇦🇹🇼 (@DrewPavlou) September 3, 2025

Global Context: Why the Parade Was Important

China’s military parade was not a small event. It was meant to show the world that Beijing is now a superpower leading its own group of allies. By placing Putin and Kim on the main stage, China sent a message of unity against the West.

Most Western leaders, including from the US, UK, and EU, did not attend the parade. They wanted to avoid giving legitimacy to China’s show of force. This makes Andrews’ presence stand out even more.

Did Andrews Do the Right Thing?

This question has divided Australians.

• Critics say: He gave free propaganda to dictators and insulted victims of war.

• Supporters say: He was maintaining relations with China, which is Victoria’s biggest trade partner.

• Neutral voices say: He should have been more careful because of the symbolism of standing next to Putin and Kim.

The truth is, Andrews is no longer a government leader, but his public role makes him responsible for how his actions are perceived.

Fact Check: Is This News True and Current?

Yes, this news is latest and correct as of 1 September 2025.

• Multiple reliable outlets like The Guardian, Herald Sun, The Australian, and AP News have reported on this issue.

• The photos of Andrews at the parade are real and verified.

• The backlash from political leaders and community groups has been officially recorded.

So readers can trust that this controversy is real, not a rumour.