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Local sources from Vietnam: The Guardian, The Diplomat.
UK coverage: Sky News.

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Vietnam has raised concerns over his “armed aggression” pact with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Putin praised Vietnam for its “balanced” stance on the war in Ukraine, while the US embassy in Hanoi condemned the visit, stating that no country should give Putin a platform to promote his aggression. The agreement between Putin and Kim includes investment, cultural ties, and a mutual defense clause. The pact has drawn attention from China, which is closely watching Russia’s influence in North Korea. Japan also expressed concerns over potential military cooperation between Russia and North Korea.

According to an article from The Guardian, Putin arrived in Vietnam for a state visit that was condemned by the US. The visit was seen as a platform for Putin to promote his aggressive actions. The US embassy in Hanoi criticized the visit, stating that no country should give Putin a platform to normalize his crimes. However, Vietnam has maintained a balanced stance on international disputes, including the war in Ukraine. Putin praised Vietnam for its pragmatic approach to resolving crises.

The visit comes after Putin signed a bilateral defense agreement with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during his visit to Pyongyang. The agreement includes cooperation in various fields such as trade, technology, and humanitarian issues. The mutual defense clause in the agreement has raised concerns among Western countries, particularly the US and Japan, who fear potential military cooperation between Russia and North Korea.

The Diplomat reported that Putin’s visit to Vietnam was actively prepared and is scheduled for June 19-20. The agenda for the visit includes discussions on energy, military cooperation, settlement of payments, and education agreements. Vietnam initially had reservations about approving the visit due to its proximity to Putin’s visit to North Korea. However, Vietnam has decided to welcome Putin and discuss various areas of cooperation, including banking, trade, and textile exports.

Vietnam’s approach to international relations has been to maintain neutrality and foster relations with all major powers. Despite tensions between Russia and the West due to the invasion of Ukraine, Vietnam continues to view productive relations with Russia as crucial to its national interests. The country has hosted high-level leaders from major powers, including the US and China, in recent years. Putin’s visit to Vietnam is seen as a continuation of this trend.

The visit has drawn attention from China, which closely monitors Russia’s influence in North Korea. China is wary of any potential increase in Russia’s involvement in the region. Japan also expressed concerns over the possibility of military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. The international community will be closely watching the outcome of Putin’s visit and its implications for regional dynamics.