International Affairs
Jun 20, 2024, 1:55 AM
Jun 19, 2024, 12:00 AM
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Vietnam's Welcome to Putin Sparks U.S. Criticism

Vietnam country in Southeast Asia Vladimir Putin president of Russia (1999–2008, 2012–present)
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Highlights
  • Vietnam welcomed Russian President Vladimir Putin despite U.S. criticism.
  • The move highlights Vietnam's close relationship with Moscow amid Western disapproval.
  • The visit is seen as a diplomatic gesture to maintain military ties between Russia and Vietnam.
Story

Putin visited Hanoi from North Korea, where he signed a partnership with Kim Jong Un. The U.S. Embassy criticized giving Putin a platform. Trade between Russia and Vietnam is in rubles and dong. Vietnam has refrained from Russian arms procurements due to Western sanctions. Hanoi seeks reassurances about Russia's ties with China. Russia is seen as a counterbalance to the U.S. and China for Vietnam. Vietnam uses Russian support for oil exploration in the South China Sea. Vietnam has a neutral stance on the Ukraine conflict. Putin aims to maintain military ties with Vietnam amid its closer relations with the U.S. and China.

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