Myanmar's ongoing civil war has been marked by a tragic alliance with Russia, which has supplied the junta with high-tech weapons, including fighter jets, helicopters, and drones. The town of Tigyaing, located in northern Myanmar, has faced relentless airstrikes from Russian Yak-130 planes, turning it into a field of ash and death.
The conflict in Myanmar escalated following a coup three years ago, which saw the military overthrow the democratic government led by Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi. Rebel groups, holding control of about 60% of the country, have posed significant challenges to the military's grip on power. Human Rights Watch reported in April 2023 that over 160 civilians were killed in a single airstrike in northern Myanmar.
While China has historically been a key ally of the Myanmar junta, its stance has shifted as the conflict drew closer to its borders. Russia has since become Myanmar's primary supporter, supplying both equipment and maintaining military systems. This cooperation extends beyond Myanmar, as the junta has supported Russia's aggression in Ukraine both diplomatically and materially, providing mortar shells and other optical systems used in the conflict, and serving as a transit point for arms.
The backdrop of the Ukraine war further complicates the international dynamics. President Volodymyr Zelensky has highlighted China’s support of Russia, claiming that it prolongs the conflict, and accused Russia of using China to disrupt an upcoming international peace summit set for June 15-16 in Switzerland. The summit aims to address crucial issues such as nuclear security and food supply chains.
Zelensky emphasized that some components of Russian weaponry originate from China, which refutes claims of supplying direct arms support, maintaining it only provides dual-use goods. U.S. officials have also warned China of the consequences of assisting Russia militarily.
Despite the continuous conflict and international talks, the tragic plight of Myanmar’s citizens remains dire. The United Nations estimates that approximately 2.8 million people are internally displaced due to the violence. Russia’s role in both conflicts illustrates the far-reaching impacts of its military alliances and geopolitical maneuvers, exerting influence from Asia to Europe.
- Richard Horsey from the Crisis Group stated that despite significant challenges facing Myanmar’s military junta, the insurgent groups primarily aim to control and administer their regions rather than seize national power. The junta's persistent airstrikes underline the ongoing violent clashes between government forces and rebel groups.
- Trade between Russia and Myanmar continues to thrive under sanctions, using national currencies for transactions. Russia also exports large quantities of crude oil to China via Myanmar, illustrating a deep-knit alliance amidst economic and military isolation.
- The peace conference in Switzerland is a focal point for international efforts to resolve the Ukraine conflict. Over 100 countries and international organizations have pledged to join the peace dialogue, which seeks to foster global consensus on critical issues.
