BANGKOK — The leader of Myanmar’s military administration landed in Russia on Monday, signaling a visit to a crucial ally amid international isolation from Western nations. The Southeast Asian nation, criticized globally for toppling its democratically elected government and following it with intense suppression, has found support in Russia.
Senior General Min Aung Hlaing touched down in Moscow, greeted ceremoniously by a military orchestra at the airport. He is set to engage with Russian President Vladimir Putin during his stay. In addition to meeting Putin, the general is traveling with members of the military council and Cabinet, alongside other military officials, as broadcasted by state television MRTV.
The visit focuses on discussions surrounding bilateral relations, economic ventures, and security matters to bolster strategic ties. Russia is a significant ally of Myanmar, standing firm alongside China as a key supporter and weaponry provider to Myanmar’s military authorities. Russian-supplied aircraft are employed in assaults on regions governed by ethnic minority factions, many of which are aligned with resistance groups backing democracy.
At international assemblies, Russia staunchly defends Myanmar’s military regime, while Myanmar’s generals consistently back Moscow’s global diplomatic objectives. As the Western world continues to sideline Myanmar’s military leadership, stringent economic and political sanctions have been enacted as a response to the coup and subsequent violent crackdowns that have claimed thousands of civilian lives, leading to what many view as a burgeoning civil war.
This trip marks Min Aung Hlaing’s fourth visit to Russia since he took control from Aung San Suu Kyi’s elected officials in February 2021. Previously, he had an encounter with Putin during the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok back in September 2022. Additionally, Russia and Myanmar have organized joint military exercises and signed agreements to develop nuclear energy initiatives. Furthermore, Myanmar’s military government has plans to facilitate general labor employment in Russia.
