@whitequark technically yes, but it still assumes connection by design. But that doesn't change the relevant part that XML doesn't assume network because it wasn't something at the time. And breaking compatibility is always a huge pita. Just look at how many websites are still locked on vulnerable php versions because the latter ones are not compatible. I'd rather have clunky specs than having to change code every few years to stay compatible. And that's what would have happened with XML parsers if it did that.
@rakslice