In a significant policy shift, the Trump administration has allowed U.S. diplomats to participate in Vietnam War anniversary events, countering previous bans that frustrated veterans. While progress is acknowledged, critics urge for deeper engagement in postwar reconciliation.
U.S. Admin Modifies Diplomat Ban for Vietnam War Anniversary Celebrations
U.S. Admin Modifies Diplomat Ban for Vietnam War Anniversary Celebrations
The Trump administration has lifted restrictions on U.S. diplomats attending Vietnam War commemoration events, sparking diverse reactions from veterans and officials.
April 29, 2025, 11:36 a.m. ET
In a noteworthy alteration of prior policy, the Trump administration has lifted a ban on senior U.S. diplomats attending commemorative events for the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War. This change comes after previous restrictions drew criticism from veterans and advocates.
On Tuesday, U.S. officials notified their Vietnamese counterparts that Susan Burns, the U.S. Consul General, would be present at a reception that evening alongside other diplomats and local officials. Observers confirmed her attendance at the event, held in Ho Chi Minh City, with photos surfacing as evidence of the presence of U.S. representatives.
While Marc E. Knapper, the U.S. Ambassador and a son of a Vietnam veteran, was not seen at the reception, he had intended to represent the U.S. He is also expected to be absent from the main anniversary celebrations scheduled for Wednesday, which will feature a parade and speeches marking the momentous occasion of South Vietnam's surrender and the U.S. evacuation from Saigon on April 30, 1975.
While some veterans and advocates expressed relief at the attendance of Ms. Burns, many feel the administration's actions still fall short of what is necessary. Critics assert that the current leadership has shown a disconnection from the importance of fostering reconciliation with Vietnam, especially as both nations recognize each other as strategic partners in confronting China's growing influence in the region. John Terzano, a founding member of the Vietnam Veterans of America Foundation and a frequent visitor to Vietnam, voiced his frustration, stating, “From where I sit, they don’t have a clue.”
In a noteworthy alteration of prior policy, the Trump administration has lifted a ban on senior U.S. diplomats attending commemorative events for the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War. This change comes after previous restrictions drew criticism from veterans and advocates.
On Tuesday, U.S. officials notified their Vietnamese counterparts that Susan Burns, the U.S. Consul General, would be present at a reception that evening alongside other diplomats and local officials. Observers confirmed her attendance at the event, held in Ho Chi Minh City, with photos surfacing as evidence of the presence of U.S. representatives.
While Marc E. Knapper, the U.S. Ambassador and a son of a Vietnam veteran, was not seen at the reception, he had intended to represent the U.S. He is also expected to be absent from the main anniversary celebrations scheduled for Wednesday, which will feature a parade and speeches marking the momentous occasion of South Vietnam's surrender and the U.S. evacuation from Saigon on April 30, 1975.
While some veterans and advocates expressed relief at the attendance of Ms. Burns, many feel the administration's actions still fall short of what is necessary. Critics assert that the current leadership has shown a disconnection from the importance of fostering reconciliation with Vietnam, especially as both nations recognize each other as strategic partners in confronting China's growing influence in the region. John Terzano, a founding member of the Vietnam Veterans of America Foundation and a frequent visitor to Vietnam, voiced his frustration, stating, “From where I sit, they don’t have a clue.”
