HANOI, Vietnam — Internal Vietnamese military documents reveal ongoing concern about potential U.S. intervention, describing the United States as a “belligerent power” and outlining contingency plans for unconventional warfare.
The Ministry of Defense’s 2024 report, titled “The 2nd U.S. Invasion Plan,” cites U.S. partnerships with other Asian nations as part of a strategic front against China. Analysts say the documents show a long-standing vigilance within Vietnam’s military and government institutions. This vigilance persists despite the currently low risk of armed conflict.
Ben Swanton, co-director of human rights group The 88 Project, said the documents underscore systemic concerns, rather than fringe paranoia.