US Envoy Declares All-Time High Trust with Vietnam After Putin's Visit

A senior U.S. diplomat visited Vietnam and emphasized that the trust between the two countries is at an "all-time high," following Russian President Putin's recent visit to Hanoi. The U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asia and Pacific Affairs, Daniel Kritenbrink, highlighted the strong relationship between the U.S. and Vietnam, which was elevated to comprehensive strategic partner status last year. This move by Vietnam indicated a desire to diversify diplomatic ties amid shifting global dynamics, particularly in response to China's influence. During the visit, Kritenbrink underscored Vietnam's sovereignty and economic ties with the U.S., with trade between the two countries reaching $111 billion in 2023. Despite the historical alliance with Russia, Vietnam values its defense partnership with the U.S. and relies on Russian technologies for maintaining sovereignty claims in the South China Sea. Kritenbrink also expressed concerns over China's assertive actions in the region, particularly regarding territorial disputes involving multiple countries, which could potentially escalate into a conflict involving the U.S. and China. Vietnam's diplomatic approach towards resolving disputes in the South China Sea, including willingness to engage in talks with the Philippines, contrasts with China's aggressive stance. Kritenbrink condemned China's actions in the region as irresponsible and destabilizing, emphasizing the importance of defense treaties between the U.S. and its allies in the area. The U.S. diplomat's visit aimed to strengthen the partnership between the U.S. and Vietnam, independent of Putin's visit, and to address regional security concerns in the context of growing tensions in the South China Sea.