In Moscow on Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in discussions with General Min Aung Hlaing, the leader of Myanmar’s military government. This visit marks the General’s fourth trip to Russia since his armed forces took control of Myanmar in February 2021 from Aung San Suu Kyi’s democratically elected administration. Myanmar’s current military rulers have been largely shunned by the West, facing significant economic and political sanctions resulting from their seizure of power and the harsh repression of opposition voices. This crackdown has led to the deaths of thousands and is widely viewed as sparking a civil conflict.
During the meeting, Putin highlighted the increasing trade and cooperation between Russia and Myanmar on the global stage. He also expressed gratitude to Min Aung Hlaing for gifting six baby elephants to Moscow. Myanmar has been supported prominently by Russia and China, with Russia serving as a key arms supplier. The Myanmar military employs Russian-manufactured fighter jets in their operations against areas held by ethnic minority factions, who frequently ally with pro-democracy resistance groups.
Russia consistently defends Myanmar’s military regime in international settings, and the military leaders of Myanmar reciprocate by endorsing Russia’s foreign policy objectives. Both nations have conducted joint military exercises and established an agreement to develop nuclear energy. The Myanmar military leader expressed gratitude to Putin for Russia’s support, including its military actions in Ukraine.
Morgan Michaels, an analyst from the International Institute of Strategic Studies, noted that Russia is crucial to the survival of the Myanmar military, providing not only diplomatic backing but also contributing significantly to bolstering the regime’s military capabilities. Nay Phone Latt, representing Myanmar’s opposition National Unity Government, explained the military leader’s quest for global acknowledgment, stressing his willingness to exchange national resources for international backing.
Nay Phone Latt elaborated that to sustain his power, Min Aung Hlaing seeks out countries that would officially recognize his rule and furnish him with the assistance he desires, in return for what they seek from Myanmar.
