Russian President Vladimir Putin recently visited Vietnam and India, signing cooperation deals and receiving accolades despite US criticism. India and Vietnam, long-time Russian military equipment buyers, are balancing ties with the US amidst Russian decline as a global arms supplier.
Geopolitical interests dictate continued engagement with Putin, despite historical ties with the US. Both countries seek to diversify trade and payment channels, insulating themselves from Western economic dominance. Russia’s role as a counterweight to China also factors into the equation.
These developments pose a strategic challenge in Asia for the US, as emerging powers view Western hegemony with caution. Despite US efforts to arm allies and counter China’s influence, partnerships with Russia present a complex dynamic.
Mohamed Zeeshan is a foreign affairs columnist based in Washington, DC, and the author of “Flying Blind: India’s Quest for Global Leadership.”
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