Donald Trump has rejected suggestions that the warming of relations between China, Russia and their allies poses a challenge to the US on the global stage. The US president told reporters in the Oval Office that he had a good relationship with President Xi Jinping and that China needs us more than we need them.

It comes as Xi prepares to host world leaders at a Victory Day parade in Beijing on Wednesday - a showcase of China's military might. Xi will be joined by North Korea's Kim Jong Un and Russia's Vladimir Putin, viewed by some observers as a message to the Western nations that have shunned them.

China has sought to position itself as a possible counterweight to the US since Trump's tariffs rocked the global economic and political order. Trump has pitched his tariffs as essential to protecting American interests and industry, suggesting that any diplomatic cost is something he is willing to pay.

When asked if he believed Beijing and its allies were attempting to form an international coalition to oppose the US, Trump said: No. Not at all. China needs us.

He added: I have a very good relationship with President Xi, as you know. But China needs us much more than we need them. I don't see that at all.

Meanwhile, Trump expressed disappointment in Vladimir Putin, after their recent negotiations regarding Ukraine fell through. He believes that America possesses the strongest military in the world, indicating confidence in its ability to maintain global influence amidst changing international relations.