"Anti-American plot?"…Trump reveals uncomfortable sentiments

Morning: "I'm not worried at all" — nonchalant

Afternoon: "Give my regards to Putin and Kim"

Threw a rhetorical jab to check them

Donald Trump, the U.S. President (photo), expressed discomfort regarding China's Victory Day 80th anniversary military parade, referring to Xi Jinping, China's president, as "plotting against the United States." It is interpreted that he showed resentment as Xi solidified an anti-American (反美) alliance alongside Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, and Kim Jong-un, Chairman of North Korea's State Affairs Commission.

President Trump wrote on social media on the 2nd (local time), "It is a serious question that must be answered whether Chairman Xi will mention the huge amount of support and blood the United States provided to China so that China could secure freedom against very hostile foreign invaders." He added, "Many Americans died in the course of China's pursuit of victory and glory," and said, "I want them to be rightfully honored and remembered for their courage and sacrifice."

This social media post by President Trump came just after the start of China's Victory Day event. Earlier that day, in a radio interview broadcast in the morning and when meeting reporters at a White House event in the afternoon, he appeared nonchalant, answering "Not at all" when asked whether he was concerned about closer ties among North Korea, China and Russia. He cited that the United States is in a much more advantageous position in relations with China (對中) and that they would not pose a military threat to the United States as reasons for not being concerned about a North Korea–China–Russia alignment.

However, some observers say that when the Victory Day event actually began and the leaders of North Korea, China and Russia were seen standing side by side, he showed signs of discomfort. President Trump also said, "You (Xi Jinping), while plotting against the United States, please convey my warmest regards to Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un." It is interpreted that he fired a warning shot at the North Korea–China–Russia alliance through paradoxical rhetoric.

Washington=Correspondent Lee Sang-eun selee@hankyung.com