The Trump administration's latest directive instructs senior diplomats in Vietnam, including Ambassador Marc Knapper, to refrain from participating in events commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War's end. This decision is seen as a significant blow to ongoing reconciliation efforts between the United States and Vietnam.
U.S. Diplomats Ordered to Skip Vietnam War Anniversary Events
U.S. Diplomats Ordered to Skip Vietnam War Anniversary Events
In a controversial decision, the Trump administration directs diplomats to avoid significant commemorative activities, raising concern over reconciliation efforts.
According to four anonymous U.S. officials, the administration has asked diplomats to stay away from planned activities, including a high-profile hotel reception and a large parade organized by Vietnam in Ho Chi Minh City on April 30. Veterans returning to Vietnam for discussions about war and reconciliation have also been told they will be unsupported at these commemorative events.
John Terzano, a Vietnam Veterans of America Foundation co-founder and a two-tour veteran, expressed disappointment, stating that this appears to be a missed opportunity for meaningful engagement. "It really doesn’t require anything of the United States to just stand there," he noted, emphasizing the ceremonial aspect of the planned gatherings and lamenting the reversal after years of reconciliation progress.
John Terzano, a Vietnam Veterans of America Foundation co-founder and a two-tour veteran, expressed disappointment, stating that this appears to be a missed opportunity for meaningful engagement. "It really doesn’t require anything of the United States to just stand there," he noted, emphasizing the ceremonial aspect of the planned gatherings and lamenting the reversal after years of reconciliation progress.
