A recent report reveals that the Vietnamese military has been preparing for a potential “war of aggression” by the United States, even more than 50 years after the conclusion of the Vietnam War. The internal military document, produced in 2024 and made public by the human rights group Project88, highlights a stark contrast between Vietnam’s public strengthening of ties with Washington and its defense strategies, which are oriented towards anticipating a potential US invasion.
Titled “The 2nd US Invasion Plan,” the document was completed by Vietnam’s Ministry of Defense in August 2024, less than a year after Vietnam and the US elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership—the highest level of bilateral relations achieved to date. This significant milestone was announced during President Biden’s visit to Hanoi in September 2023, which marked an important moment in nearly three decades of gradually improving relations since the normalization of diplomatic ties in 1995.
Despite the apparent diplomatic progress between the two nations, this report underscores a lingering apprehension in Vietnam regarding US intentions. The preparation for a potential conflict indicates that, while engaging in friendly relations on the surface, Vietnam’s military is diligently assessing all scenarios, possibly in response to regional tensions.
This development serves as a reminder of the complex and often cautious dynamics that persist in international relations, even among nations that are fostering closer partnerships. The Vietnamese defense strategy reflects a broader need for vigilance in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape and demonstrates the intricate balance countries must maintain between collaboration and national security.