As Southeast Asian states rekindle ties with Russia, the backdrop of the ongoing Ukraine war plays a significant role in this renewed interest. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently expressed concern over the presence of a Russian submarine, a kilo-class Project 636.3 variant, in Philippine waters. This submarine boasts a missile range of 12,000 kilometers, raising alarms among local officials. However, they noted that the submarine's presence was not illegal under international law. [3d51ec0d]
This development occurs as Russia seeks to strengthen its partnerships within the Global South, capitalizing on growing anti-Western sentiment in the region. Leaders in countries like Indonesia and Vietnam have shown increasing support for Moscow, reflecting a shift in diplomatic alignments. Vietnam, in particular, is negotiating a multibillion-dollar defense deal with Russia, despite the backdrop of Western sanctions against Moscow. [3d51ec0d]
The geopolitical landscape in Southeast Asia is further complicated by Russia's partnership with China and recent military exercises in the South China Sea, which have raised concerns among US allies. Notably, Indonesia and Malaysia are also looking to enhance their ties with Russia, with the first-ever joint Indonesian-Russian naval exercises taking place in November 2024. [3d51ec0d]
This evolving dynamic suggests that Southeast Asian nations are increasingly viewing Russia as a strategic partner in a post-Western multipolar order. The region's leaders are navigating complex relationships, balancing their interests between major powers while seeking to assert their sovereignty and independence. [3d51ec0d]
In the context of these developments, Vietnam's recent diplomatic upgrade with Malaysia and its ongoing negotiations with Russia highlight the intricate web of alliances forming in Southeast Asia. As countries like Vietnam and Malaysia bolster their defense capabilities and partnerships, the implications for regional security and stability become increasingly significant. [3a6a7e61]
The interplay of these relationships underscores the shifting geopolitical currents in Southeast Asia, where nations are reevaluating their alliances and strategies in response to external pressures and the changing global landscape. [3d51ec0d]