April 29, 2025, 11:36 a.m. ET
In a notable shift in policy, the Trump administration has relaxed its previous ban on senior American diplomats attending events for the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War's conclusion. This change comes in response to mounting discontent among Vietnam veterans and veterans' organizations.
On Tuesday, the U.S. informed Vietnamese officials that Susan Burns, the U.S. Consul General, would represent American interests at a reception in Ho Chi Minh City. Reports confirmed her presence at the event, alongside other diplomats and Vietnamese dignitaries, although U.S. Ambassador Marc E. Knapper, who had initially planned to attend, was not seen.
The main commemorative event, taking place on Wednesday, will include a parade and speeches marking the anniversary of South Vietnam's surrender and the evacuation of American forces from Saigon on April 30, 1975. While the presence of Consul General Burns has been met with approval, many critics argue it falls short of what is necessary for genuine reconciliation between the U.S. and Vietnam.
John Terzano, a founder of the Vietnam Veterans of America Foundation, expressed his discontent, emphasizing that the administration does not grasp the significance of fostering a strong relationship with Vietnam, especially as the country is becoming a key partner in countering China's growing regional influence.
This development reflects the complexities of post-war diplomacy and the ongoing challenges in addressing historical wounds while navigating contemporary geopolitical interests.
In a notable shift in policy, the Trump administration has relaxed its previous ban on senior American diplomats attending events for the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War's conclusion. This change comes in response to mounting discontent among Vietnam veterans and veterans' organizations.
On Tuesday, the U.S. informed Vietnamese officials that Susan Burns, the U.S. Consul General, would represent American interests at a reception in Ho Chi Minh City. Reports confirmed her presence at the event, alongside other diplomats and Vietnamese dignitaries, although U.S. Ambassador Marc E. Knapper, who had initially planned to attend, was not seen.
The main commemorative event, taking place on Wednesday, will include a parade and speeches marking the anniversary of South Vietnam's surrender and the evacuation of American forces from Saigon on April 30, 1975. While the presence of Consul General Burns has been met with approval, many critics argue it falls short of what is necessary for genuine reconciliation between the U.S. and Vietnam.
John Terzano, a founder of the Vietnam Veterans of America Foundation, expressed his discontent, emphasizing that the administration does not grasp the significance of fostering a strong relationship with Vietnam, especially as the country is becoming a key partner in countering China's growing regional influence.
This development reflects the complexities of post-war diplomacy and the ongoing challenges in addressing historical wounds while navigating contemporary geopolitical interests.
