
Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the Vietnamese capital Hanoi after a meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, solidifying a new strategic partnership driven by Moscow's need for weapons amid the conflict in Ukraine. Putin's aim to strengthen economic ties with friendly nations and counter Western isolation was evident in his choice of Vietnam, known for its non-alignment foreign policy and historical ties to Russia.
The visit, which included meetings with Vietnamese leaders like Communist Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong and President To Lam, emphasized the importance of the comprehensive strategic partnership between Russia and Vietnam. Putin extended an invitation to Lam for Victory Day celebrations in Moscow next year, highlighting the close ties between the two nations.