In the wake of the devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar, international rescue teams have been working tirelessly to save lives and provide aid. Chinese rescue crews are seen pulling elderly individuals and children from the rubble, while Russian medical teams set up field hospitals to treat the injured, capturing the attention and gratitude of a global audience. However, notably absent from the scene are the robust and well-equipped search-and-rescue teams from the United States.
The earthquake, which struck on March 28, has resulted in over 3,000 fatalities, according to Myanmar’s official reports. In response, at least 15 Asian and Western governments have dispatched their teams, amounting to hundreds of rescue workers, with financial aid pledges reaching tens of millions of dollars. Among these, Vietnam’s team made a significant entrance, proudly showcasing their national flag as they marched in to assist.
While Myanmar’s ongoing civil conflicts and military governance present significant obstacles, the U.S. has historically navigated these challenges to deliver assistance after major disasters, such as the severe storms of 2008 and 2023. Despite its unparalleled expertise and capacity in disaster response, the U.S. has limited its involvement to sending a three-member assessment group several days post-quake, marking a shift from its usual role.
This diminished presence might reflect a broader policy shift. Traditionally, the U.S., as a leading global economy, embraced its role as a major humanitarian benefactor as part of its strategic policy to strengthen international alliances. However, some believe that changes made during the Trump administration, specifically the downsizing of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), contribute to the apparent withdrawal from this role. Critics argue that the policy aims more at domestic efficiency than international humanitarian impact.
While some officials, like Secretary of State Marco Rubio, contend that resources must be judiciously allocated, emphasizing the role of other wealthy nations in aiding Myanmar, others express disappointment at the U.S.’s limited engagement. Leading figures, including Senate Democrats, have voiced concerns and urged for a more robust American response.
The Trump administration’s restructuring efforts, which include freezing funding, ending numerous contracts, and reducing global staff, aim to streamline aid programs under a new State Department framework. These efforts have put additional financial strain on non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that rely on U.S. funding to aid unforeseen crises, like that in Myanmar.
Despite recent promises by the U.S. to provide $9 million in aid to Myanmar, this figure pales compared to the sum outstanding from halted USAID and State Department payments. These financial setbacks have driven some aid organizations to cut back on services and even forced some smaller groups out of operation altogether.
Historically, in disasters similar to the Myanmar quake, the U.S. would have contributed significantly more in initial disaster response funding and rapidly deployed large teams equipped for complex rescue operations. Current logistics and budget cuts, however, appear to have hampered such swift and large-scale interventions.
Other nations, like Britain, have pledged substantial aid amounts and emergency response teams alongside Russia, China, India, and others. Chinese teams, benefitting from geographic proximity and bilateral ties, have made significant inroads in rescue efforts, with media outlets capturing their rapid success in saving several survivors.
While the international community steps up to aid Myanmar, the U.S.’s role remains a subject of debate, highlighting broader discussions on the nation’s future approach to global humanitarian crises.