Leaked Document Reveals Vietnam’s Deep Mistrust of US Despite Upgraded Ties

HANOI: An internal Vietnamese military document has revealed lingering fears within Hanoi’s leadership that the United States could one day wage a “war of aggression” against Vietnam, even as the two countries elevated ties to their highest diplomatic level last year. The document, titled “The 2nd US Invasion Plan” and completed by Vietnam’s Ministry of Defense in August 2024, describes the US as a “belligerent” power and warns of the risk of Washington fomenting a so-called “color revolution” to undermine the Communist Party’s rule. While it notes that the likelihood of direct conflict remains low, it urges vigilance against any pretext for foreign intervention. The report was highlighted in an analysis released Tuesday by The 88 Project, a human rights organization focused on Vietnam. Its co-director, Ben Swanton, said the document reflects a broad consensus within the Vietnamese government rather than fringe thinking. The findings stand in stark contrast to the 2023 Comprehensive Strategic Partnership signed by the US and Vietnam under President Joe Biden, which placed Washington on par with Hanoi’s top partners, Russia and China. Vietnamese planners, however, warned that the US seeks to use democracy and human rights to gradually reshape Vietnam’s political system. Vietnam’s Foreign Ministry did not respond to requests for comment, while the US State Department emphasized that the partnership aims to promote mutual prosperity and regional stability. Analysts say the documents offer rare insight into Vietnam’s internal balancing act—seeking economic and diplomatic gains from Washington while remaining deeply wary of US intentions, shaped by historical memory and fears of regime change.