Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the Vietnamese capital Hanoi after a meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, solidifying a new strategic partnership driven by Moscow's need for weapons amid the conflict in Ukraine. Putin's aim to strengthen economic ties with friendly nations and counter Western isolation was evident in his choice of Vietnam, known for its non-alignment foreign policy and historical ties to Russia.
The visit, which included meetings with Vietnamese leaders like Communist Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong and President To Lam, emphasized the importance of the comprehensive strategic partnership between Russia and Vietnam. Putin extended an invitation to Lam for Victory Day celebrations in Moscow next year, highlighting the close ties between the two nations.
The trip, criticized by the US Embassy in Hanoi, is expected to result in a joint statement and agreements on trade, economic, scientific, technological, and humanitarian cooperation. Vietnam's role in balancing relations with major powers like Russia, the US, and China was underscored, with recent diplomatic efforts leading to an upgrade in ties with the US to a 'comprehensive strategic partnership.'
While Vietnam values its partnership with Russia, it also maintains relationships with other major powers for security and economic development. The visit comes at a time when Putin is seeking support amid international sanctions over the Ukraine conflict and is part of his broader efforts to establish a new global order in opposition to the West.
Putin's outreach to friendly countries, including Vietnam and China, signals a shift in global alliances and a push to counter Western dominance. The upcoming BRICS summit in Russia, where Moscow will assume the rotating presidency, further underscores this effort to forge a new world order and geopolitical counterweight to Western institutions.
As Putin continues his diplomatic engagements, the visit to Vietnam serves as a symbolic gesture to showcase Russia's resilience against Western sanctions and its pursuit of alternative alliances. The trip highlights the evolving geopolitical landscape and the strategic maneuvers of major global players in shaping the future world order.
