Russian President Vladimir Putin has landed in the Vietnamese capital of Hanoi as part of his East Asian tour, following a recent visit to North Korea. The visit is seen as a display of the ongoing diplomatic support that Russia enjoys in the region, despite criticism from the United States for providing a platform to promote Putin’s actions in Ukraine.
Vietnam values its historical ties with Russia while also seeking to improve relations with Europe and the US. The strong connection between the two countries dates back to the support provided by the Soviet Union to North Vietnam in the 1950s. Even today, Vietnam continues to use Russian-made military equipment and relies on partnerships with Russian oil companies for oil exploration in the South China Sea.
While Vietnam has managed to abstain from taking sides on the Ukraine conflict, maintaining relationships with both Russia and Ukraine, there are indications of shifting dynamics internally. High-level resignations within the communist party suggest potential rivalries over the country’s future leadership and direction.
Despite seeking alternative sources for military equipment, Vietnam’s dependence on Russia will take time to diminish. The country’s “bamboo diplomacy” approach emphasizes maintaining friendships without entering formal alliances, allowing Vietnam to navigate the complexities of global power dynamics.
Public sentiment in Vietnam regarding the Ukraine conflict is mixed, with some admiration for Putin’s defiance against the West. The country’s approach aligns with its long-standing principle of being friends to all and enemies to none, a strategy that extends to its relationships with the US, China, and other major powers.
As Vietnam continues to balance its ties with various countries, including Russia, the future of its camaraderie with Putin remains uncertain. The country’s commitment to its foreign policy principles and strategic partnerships will shape its role in the evolving regional and global landscape.
