Russian President Vladimir Putin is planning to visit China, Vietnam, and North Korea in May, as reported by Voice of America. Experts believe that Putin’s visit to Vietnam will demonstrate that Western sanctions have not isolated Russia, as Hanoi maintains a middle ground between China and the United States. Additionally, Vietnam may be interested in pursuing an arms deal with Russia to update its aging arsenal of Soviet-era equipment. Putin’s visit to China will be his first trip abroad since winning his fifth term in March. China remains Russia’s leading source of sanctioned dual-use goods, fueling the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Vietnam’s General Secretary invited Putin to visit during a phone call on March 26, and Putin reportedly accepted the invitation. Analysts suggest that Vietnam is negotiating a weapons deal with Russia, potentially seeking new military planes as their current inventory is reaching the end of its operational life. The visit to North Korea could also strengthen Russia’s partnership with a key ally in the region. Overall, Putin’s upcoming visits to these countries in Asia are seen as an opportunity to showcase Russia’s relationships in the region and signal that the West has not been able to isolate Russia despite sanctions.
The state media outlet Vietnam News Agency reported that General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong invited Putin to visit during a phone call on March 26. Putin reportedly accepted the invitation and agreed to arrange a suitable time. Analysts believe that a potential arms deal between Vietnam and Russia could be on the agenda during Putin’s visit, as Vietnam seeks to update its military equipment. Putin’s trip to these three Asian countries will likely aim to demonstrate the strength of Russia’s partnerships in the region and dispel the notion that Western sanctions have isolated Russia.
Putin’s visit to China will be his first trip abroad since winning his fifth term in March, according to reports. China remains a key partner for Russia, especially in providing dual-use goods that are sanctioned by Western countries. This collaboration between China and Russia continues to fuel the ongoing war in Ukraine. Putin’s visit to China, Vietnam, and North Korea is seen as an opportunity to strengthen these alliances and showcase Russia’s presence in the region despite facing international sanctions.
Overall, Putin’s upcoming visits to China, Vietnam, and North Korea in May are seen as an opportunity for Russia to demonstrate its partnerships in Asia and signal that Western sanctions have not isolated the country. The potential arms deals with Vietnam and North Korea could also strengthen Russia’s military ties in the region. As Putin embarks on his first trip abroad since his reelection, the focus will be on showcasing Russia’s relationships with its allies in Asia and continuing to assert its presence on the global stage.
