Author: Jonathan Head

Cambodia’s Ream Naval Base is at the center of speculations regarding China’s military expansion, with the presence of Chinese warships and facilities raising concerns among US officials. Despite Cambodia’s denials, satellite images confirm the increasing Chinese footprint in the region. The US-China military balance is shifting, as China aims to become a global military power through initiatives like the Belt and Road. Partnerships with Cambodia, once allied with the US, have now shifted to China, leading to suspicions of a potential Chinese military base at Ream. While Cambodia’s constitution prohibits permanent foreign military presence, the continuous docking of Chinese vessels…

Russian President Vladimir Putin has landed in Hanoi as part of his tour of East Asia following a visit to North Korea. This visit showcases the enduring diplomatic support Russia enjoys in the region, despite criticism from the US over Putin’s actions in Ukraine. Vietnam maintains strong ties with Russia dating back to the Soviet era, when the latter supported North Vietnam both militarily and economically. While Vietnam’s economy has diversified, it still relies on Russia for military equipment and oil exploration. Despite challenges posed by the conflict in Ukraine, Vietnam has navigated its relationships with both Russia and Ukraine…