An internal Vietnamese military document obtained by human rights group The 88 Project reveals Hanoi has been preparing for a possible US “war of aggression” even after elevating diplomatic relations with Washington to the highest level. Completed in August 2024 and titled “The 2nd US Invasion Plan,” the report portrays the United States as a belligerent power that could exploit pretexts to intervene in Vietnam. It warns that Washington seeks to spread its values of democracy, human rights, and religion to influence the socialist government, potentially encouraging regime change. The document also reflects deep concern over a “colour revolution,” citing examples like Ukraine’s Orange Revolution and the 1986 Yellow Revolution in the Philippines, signaling fears of foreign-backed internal unrest. Experts say the report exposes tension between Vietnam’s conservative, military-aligned leadership, which prioritizes regime security, and more progressive officials pursuing closer ties with the US under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. While China is viewed mainly as a regional rival, analysts note the military sees US influence as a greater existential threat due to potential interference in domestic politics. Historical grievances—including memories of the Vietnam War, the U.S. capture of former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, and disrupted US-funded aid projects—reinforce this cautious stance. Vietnam continues to balance economic and diplomatic relations with both the US and China. Trade and investment ties with the U.S. have grown, while China remains the country’s largest trading partner. Analysts emphasize that Hanoi’s dual approach—publicly engaging Washington while privately preparing for conflict—reflects persistent distrust of US intentions and the Communist Party’s prioritization of internal security over broader regional alliances. Observers say the document offers a rare, candid insight into the internal thinking of Vietnam’s military and government. It highlights a cautious, risk-averse approach to international partnerships, showing that despite public displays of friendship, Hanoi remains wary of US influence and ready to guard against perceived threats to its political system and sovereignty. An internal Vietnamese military document obtained by human rights group The 88 Project reveals Hanoi has been preparing for a possible US “war of aggression” even after elevating diplomatic relations with Washington to the highest level. Completed in August 2024 and titled “The 2nd US Invasion Plan,” the report portrays the United States as a belligerent power that could exploit pretexts to intervene in Vietnam. It warns that Washington seeks to spread its values of democracy, human rights, and religion to influence the socialist government, potentially encouraging regime change. The document also reflects deep concern over a “colour revolution,” citing examples like Ukraine’s Orange Revolution and the 1986 Yellow Revolution in the Philippines, signaling fears of foreign-backed internal unrest. Experts say the report exposes tension between Vietnam’s conservative, military-aligned leadership, which prioritizes regime security, and more progressive officials pursuing closer ties with the US under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. While China is viewed mainly as a regional rival, analysts note the military sees US influence as a greater existential threat due to potential interference in domestic politics. Historical grievances—including memories of the Vietnam War, the U.S. capture of former Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, and disrupted US-funded aid projects—reinforce this cautious stance. Vietnam continues to balance economic and diplomatic relations with both the US and China. Trade and investment ties with the U.S. have grown, while China remains the country’s largest trading partner. Analysts emphasize that Hanoi’s dual approach—publicly engaging Washington while privately preparing for conflict—reflects persistent distrust of US intentions and the Communist Party’s prioritization of internal security over broader regional alliances. Observers say the document offers a rare, candid insight into the internal thinking of Vietnam’s military and government. It highlights a cautious, risk-averse approach to international partnerships, showing that despite public displays of friendship, Hanoi remains wary of US influence and ready to guard against perceived threats to its political system and sovereignty.