Russian President Vladimir Putin is on a state visit to Vietnam to strengthen ties with the Southeast Asian country, amidst growing international isolation due to Russia's military actions in Ukraine. Putin's visit follows a recent agreement with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, pledging mutual aid in case of war, marking a significant connection between Moscow and Pyongyang.
During his visit, Putin was warmly received by Vietnamese dignitaries and school children waving flags. He met with Vietnam's new President and Communist Party General Secretary to discuss cooperation in energy, industry, technology, education, security, and trade.
Russia, facing U.S.-led sanctions for its actions in Ukraine, seeks to maintain close ties with Vietnam, a relationship dating back to 1950. Vietnam relies on Russian military equipment and oil exploration technologies for its sovereignty claims in the South China Sea.
Despite concerns over possible arms arrangements between Russia and North Korea, both countries deny violating U.N. Security Council sanctions. Vietnam's pragmatic 'bamboo diplomacy' is being tested as it navigates its relationships with major powers like the U.S., China, and Russia.
Vietnam's neutrality on the Ukraine conflict is becoming more challenging, with the U.S. Embassy criticizing Putin's visit as providing a platform for his actions. Vietnam aims to balance its economic ambitions and defense ties with the need to navigate rising tensions between Washington and Moscow.
Bilateral trade between Russia and Vietnam stood at $3.6 billion in 2023, a fraction of its trade with China and the U.S. While Vietnam has been diversifying its arms imports away from Russia, complete disengagement will take time.
