Myanmar leader visits Russia to boost ties, security cooperation

Myanmar's junta leader Min Aung Hlaing is in Russia to deepen strategic cooperation, particularly in security and economic sectors. This visit underscores Russia's continued support for Myanmar's military regime, which seized power in a 2021 coup.

Russia has been one of the few nations to back Myanmar since the coup that ousted the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. The conflict that followed has reportedly killed over 100,000 people. Min Aung Hlaing, who became president after staged elections in April, seeks to reintegrate his isolated nation into the international community.

The Myanmar presidency stated the trip aims to "further strengthen the long-standing friendly and close relations between Myanmar and Russia and develop strategic cooperation." The Myanmar military uses Russian-made fighter jets and has been accused of attacking civilians, actions some observers deem war crimes. A five-year military cooperation agreement was signed in February, though details remain scarce.

Min Aung Hlaing departed Naypyidaw with other high-ranking officials. He is scheduled to meet with the Russian prime minister, the speaker of the State Duma, and attend a Myanmar-Russia economic forum. This trip follows his visits to China, India, and Thailand earlier this year.

“

to further strengthen the long-standing friendly and close relations between Myanmar and Russia and develop strategic cooperation