Myanmar’s military-backed leader Min Aung Hlaing embarked on an official visit to Russia to hold discussions with President Vladimir Putin and other senior officials. The delegation, which departed from the capital on Monday morning and included cabinet members, was scheduled to address matters related to bilateral relations, economic cooperation, security affairs, and social issues, according to state media.
Russia stands as a principal supporter and arms supplier to Myanmar, alongside China. Military aircraft of Russian manufacture have been deployed in operations against territories controlled by ethnic minority groups, many of which maintain connections to pro-democracy resistance movements. The visit represents Min Aung Hlaing’s seventh trip to Russia since the military assumed control in February 2021, following a takeover from the previously elected administration.
Min Aung Hlaing was inaugurated as president in April following a general election that international experts and human rights organizations determined did not meet standards for free and fair voting. The polling process, conducted in phases, faced widespread criticism as a mechanism to entrench military authority while presenting the appearance of transitional civilian governance. Despite undertaking multiple international visits to countries including China, India, Laos, and Thailand, Min Aung Hlaing has remained substantially isolated in the international community.
The bilateral relationship encompasses extensive military and strategic cooperation, including joint military exercises, a nuclear power development agreement, and collaboration in space exploration initiatives. Myanmar’s governmental leadership has generally aligned with Moscow’s foreign policy positions. Western nations have implemented sanctions targeting Myanmar’s leadership in response to the military takeover and violent suppression of opposition movements, which have resulted in significant civilian casualties and contributed to ongoing internal conflict. A Myanmar-Russia Business Forum was scheduled to take place during the visit.
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