Vietnam quiet, firm and resilient in the South China Sea
Vietnam’s approach in the South China Sea has been steady and calculated, balancing firm defense of its claims with careful diplomacy to avoid unnecessary escalation. By pursuing incremental measures, strengthening maritime partnerships, and leveraging international law, Hanoi has managed to protect its interests while maintaining regional stability.
This article explores how this subtle form of diplomacy reinforces resilience in one of the world’s most contested maritime zones. For those interested in regional security and maritime strategy, it offers a nuanced look at how quiet but deliberate actions can shape the strategic balance over time.
James Borton, Senior Fellow at FPI, wrote in Asia Times on December 9, 2025, about Vietnam’s measured stance in the South China Sea.