Russian President Vladimir Putin’s upcoming visit to China may also include stops in regional allies Vietnam and North Korea, as reported by Voice of America. Putin’s visit to China was confirmed for May, with possible visits to Vietnam and North Korea in the latter part of the month, according to Reuters.
Experts believe that Putin’s visit to Vietnam could serve as a demonstration that Western sanctions have not isolated Russia, while also providing opportunities for arms deals, similar to those with North Korea. The invitation for Putin to visit Vietnam came from General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, with discussions possibly including negotiations for new military equipment to replace aging Soviet-era inventory.
This visit would showcase Russia’s partnerships in Asia and its continued “Turn to the East” policy. Putin’s visit to China is part of his first trip abroad since his controversial reelection in March, and it follows his attendance at the Belt and Road Forum in Beijing last October.