Vietnam Holds State Funeral for Nguyen Phu Trong

Vietnam is holding a two-day state funeral for Communist Party chief Nguyen Phu Trong, who passed away at the age of 80 last Friday, marking a significant change in the country's political landscape. The ceremonies, attended by international dignitaries such as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, feature widespread mourning across Vietnam, with events canceled and flags flown at half-mast. Trong, a powerful leader since 2011, was noted for his anti-corruption campaign and the country's economic liberalization. His coffin, draped in the national flag, was displayed at the National Funeral House, where family members requested no flowers or cash gifts. Neighboring Laos is also observing national mourning, with its leaders expected to attend the funeral in Hanoi. Trong's death has been described by Vietnamese officials as an irreparable loss for the nation and the party.