President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia continues his diplomatic tour in Asia, moving from North Korea to Vietnam in an effort to strengthen partnerships in the region amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Mr. Putin’s visit to North Korea solidified his alliance with leader Kim Jong-un, as the two nations renewed a mutual defense pledge. In Vietnam, Mr. Putin aims to maintain Russia’s position as the country’s main source of weapons, despite growing ties with the United States.
This visit marks Mr. Putin’s fifth trip to Vietnam, emphasizing the importance of the relationship between the two nations. Vietnam, while expanding relations with the U.S., still relies heavily on Russian military equipment, seeking ways to purchase arms in defiance of American sanctions.
The deep military ties between Russia and Vietnam date back to the Soviet era, with Russia providing significant military aid to Vietnam during its conflicts with France and the U.S. Russian equipment accounts for a majority of Vietnam’s defense arsenal, including submarines, fighter jets, and tanks.
However, concerns about Russia’s reliability as a supplier have led Vietnam to explore alternative sources of weapons, including South Korea, Japan, and the Czech Republic. The U.S. has also offered more weapons to Vietnam, but the country’s defense leadership remains cautious of Washington’s intentions.
In addition to military cooperation, Russia has a significant stake in Vietnam’s oil and gas sector, with joint ventures generating profits for both countries. These projects have drawn ire from Beijing, as they are located in disputed waters in the South China Sea.
Mr. Putin’s popularity among Vietnamese officials stems from the historical ties between the two nations, with many Vietnamese leaders receiving training in the Soviet Union and Russia. The current party chief, Nguyen Phu Trong, is among those who have benefited from this relationship.
Overall, Mr. Putin’s visit to Vietnam underscores the enduring partnership between the two countries, despite shifting geopolitical dynamics in the region.
