The United States and Vietnam have reached a new level of closeness, according to Daniel Kritenbrink, the United States Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs. He spoke to reporters during a visit to Hanoi that followed Vladimir Putin’s arrival in the region.
Kritenbrink stressed that the United States holds Vietnam in high esteem. He noted that only Vietnam can determine how it protects its sovereignty and advances its national interests. His comments came after questions about how Washington views Hanoi’s foreign policy.
The diplomat highlighted the breadth of the relationship, describing a comprehensive strategic partnership that spans nearly every sector—from the economy to security. He said Washington sees a prosperous Vietnam as aligned with American interests and that a successful Vietnam serves regional and global stability.
According to Kritenbrink, U.S.-Vietnam ties have never been stronger. He described strategic trust as reaching an all time high, calling it the core pillar of the partnership.
He added that both nations share a desire for a world governed by international law and peaceful dispute resolution. Kritenbrink emphasized that Vietnam and other states should continue to uphold the United Nations Charter and the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Vietnamese Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son, during his own visit to the United States, affirmed that Vietnam views the United States as a strategically important partner. He said Vietnam aims to deepen a comprehensive strategic partnership that serves the interests of both peoples, grounded in respect for independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and political institutions. The minister also noted closer coordination with the White House, which supports regional stability and development.
Minister Son added that Hanoi has strengthened its relations with Washington, a move that contributes to regional prosperity and security.
Putin’s visit and its aftermath in Vietnam
Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Vietnam on June 19 and 20, immediately following his trip to North Korea. During the visit, Vietnam and Russia signed several agreements, including language on deepening the two countries’ comprehensive strategic partnership. The participants agreed not to enter into alliances against each other and to cooperate on equal terms, with mutual respect and non-interference in internal affairs as guiding principles.
Putin stated that regular contacts would be increased across governments, parties, parliaments and ministries. He noted that bilateral discussions covered the main areas of cooperation and addressed pressing international and regional issues.
Both sides also agreed to cooperate through the ministries of justice, tax services and customs. They plan to develop joint laboratory facilities to combat epidemic diseases and are moving forward with a nuclear science and technology center in Vietnam with Rosatom’s participation. Educational ties were also strengthened, with agreements involving Russian and Vietnamese universities and research organizations.
Putin underscored that Vietnam and Russia oppose exclusive military blocs in the Asia-Pacific region and described the talks as constructive. He added that the discussions took place in a practical, businesslike atmosphere and that the most urgent bilateral and regional issues were explored in depth.
Western reaction and regional dynamics
Western observers noted Putin’s presence in Vietnam, and the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi urged that no country be given a platform for propaganda. Financial Times and CNN reported concern in Washington about the visit. Hanoi’s government responded by saying the visit demonstrated Vietnam’s independent foreign policy and its commitment to sovereignty.
The Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated that Putin holds affection and respect for Vietnam and its people, which explains his fifth visit. U.S. ambassadorial commentary in the region suggested Russia aims to become a major influencer among independent states not aligned with the U.S.
The Kremlin indicated that Moscow offers partners cooperation without creating new conflicts with third countries. Officials stressed that Washington is likely to pressure partners, while Russian spokespeople emphasized a practical, results-focused approach to ongoing diplomacy.
The broader takeaway is a shift in regional behavior where Vietnam works to balance ties with major powers while pursuing its own development agenda, within the framework of international norms and mutual respect among states. The events reflect Hanoi’s intent to sustain a diverse, robust foreign policy that supports stability in Southeast Asia and beyond.