The international community has stepped up to support Myanmar, which was struck by a magnitude 7.7 earthquake. Western nations, including U.S. President Donald Trump, who have previously distanced themselves from Myanmar's military regime, have also promised humanitarian assistance.
On the 28th (local time), according to CNN, Reuters, and AFP reports, Myanmar's Supreme Commander Min Aung Hlaing declared a state of emergency following the earthquake, stating, "Any organization or country wishing to help those in need in our country should come forward."
The Myanmar military regime seized power in a coup in 2021, violently suppressing opposition forces and isolating the country from the outside world, prompting sanctions from the West, including the United States and the European Union (EU).
The military regime, which has isolated Myanmar internationally, has unusually requested assistance from the international community in the wake of widespread earthquake damage. The country has suffered significant destruction of infrastructure and healthcare systems amid a civil war triggered by the military coup that has lasted over four years. Most internet and social media services are also blocked.
As a result, difficulties are expected in searching for casualties and recovering from damage, and access to the site is anticipated to be challenging.
Previously, U.S. President Donald Trump, who had significantly cut overseas aid, has pledged support this time.
When asked at the White House whether he would respond to the military regime's request for help, he noted that the earthquake was "a terrible thing" and added, "We will help and have already spoken to that country."
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, also expressed condolences to the victims and their families via X (formerly Twitter), stating, "We are ready to provide more support." She also reported that the EU's Copernicus satellite for climate change monitoring is providing observational information to emergency responders.
The Tass news agency reported that Russia, which has maintained friendly relations with the Myanmar military regime, has dispatched aircraft carrying rescuers and medical personnel to Myanmar. A spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations stated, "Under the orders of Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Minister of Emergency Situations, the Russian rescue team has departed from Zhukovsky Airport for Myanmar in two aircraft to respond to the aftermath of the earthquake."
Additionally, it was reported that Myanmar has already accepted offers of assistance from India and the ASEAN Coordinating Center for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Center).
The United Nations has promised $5 million (73 billion won) in initial emergency support. António Guterres, the UN Secretary-General, stated, "The Myanmar government has requested assistance from the international community," and added, "Our staff in Myanmar are mobilizing local resources to support the people of Myanmar as much as possible."