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MYANMAR
The earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28 added yet another layer of suffering to the country’s ongoing crises, particularly affecting the cities of Sagaing, Mandalay, and Nay Pyi Taw. The number of casualties remains unknown but could reach into the thousands. This natural disaster compounds the manmade crisis that has gripped the country since the military coup in February 2021.
Although both sides declared a temporary ceasefire until after the Buddhist New Year, the State Administration Council (SAC) has reportedly violated the agreement multiple times. The earthquake has further destabilized the situation. In a rare move, the junta leader called for international assistance. Regional actors responded swiftly, but extreme heat and unsafe working conditions severely hampered rescue operations. Despite the challenges, several individuals were pulled from the rubble alive, even five days after the quake. Experts estimate that the final death toll could be as high as 10,000. Fighting continued throughout the month despite the disaster. While opposition forces declared a unilateral ceasefire following the earthquake, SAC airstrikes persisted across several areas.
On the battlefield, the Arakan Army (AA), the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), and the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) made territorial gains. However, the situation in Karenni State remained volatile, with the opposition coalition forced to retreat from the state capital, Loikaw.
Meanwhile, junta leader Min Aung Hlaing visited Russia, where he met with President Vladimir Putin and secured an agreement for the construction of a nuclear reactor, as well as the development of deep-sea port facilities in Dawei. He also traveled to Belarus and used the trip to announce that national elections will be held either in December this year or in January 2026.