Myanmar Junta Chief Visits Russia to Bolster Strategic Ties

Myanmar's military-backed leader, Min Aung Hlaing, has departed for Russia on an official visit aimed at deepening strategic ties with Moscow. The trip, which began on Monday from the capital Naypyitaw, includes meetings with President Vladimir Putin and other senior Russian officials, according to state-run media.

The discussions are expected to cover bilateral relations, economic cooperation, security matters, and social affairs. Min Aung Hlaing is also scheduled to attend a Myanmar-Russia Business Forum during his stay.

Russia, alongside China, remains a key ally and arms supplier to Myanmar. Russian-made fighter jets have been used in operations against ethnic minority groups and pro-democracy resistance forces. The two countries have conducted joint military drills, signed a nuclear power development pact, and agreed to collaborate on human spaceflight projects, including the selection and training of Myanmar's first cosmonaut.

This is Min Aung Hlaing's seventh visit to Russia since the military seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021. The takeover triggered widespread opposition, violent crackdowns, and a civil war that has killed thousands of civilians. Western nations have imposed sanctions in response.

Despite efforts to bolster international recognition through visits to China, India, Laos, and Thailand, Min Aung Hlaing remains largely isolated on the global stage. His government has faced criticism over a general election held in phases in December and January, which UN experts and rights groups dismissed as neither free nor fair. Russia, however, has defended the junta in international forums, while Myanmar's generals have generally supported Moscow's foreign policy agenda.