The attackers then pursued more than 50 residents who had sought refuge in a Protestant church. After forcing them out, they executed 22 people in the church courtyard and 12 others behind the church.

Mace said the United States is supportive of Vietnam’s plans to host APEC in 2027 and sees the year as an opportunity to deepen economic ties in Southeast Asia. Ongoing U.S. priorities include expanding energy exports and American AI and digital technologies.