Myanmar Junta Seeks More Russian Support Amid Battlefield Struggles

Myanmar’s military leader, Min Aung Hlaing, has returned from Moscow with a diplomatic boost, securing new agreements with Russia as his forces struggle against an intensifying resistance.

The visit, his fourth since seizing power in 2021, marked his first official invitation from President Vladimir Putin. The talks resulted in Myanmar opening consulates in St Petersburg and Novosibirsk, as well as a deal for a small nuclear power plant. However, it was military cooperation that dominated discussions.

Facing heavy territorial losses to pro-democracy forces, Myanmar’s junta reportedly sought further arms and specialised drone technology from Russia. With drones reshaping modern warfare, the regime hopes enhanced aerial capabilities will help turn the tide against the growing armed resistance.

Since October 2023, a coordinated offensive by ethnic groups and pro-democracy fighters has seen the junta lose significant ground, with reports suggesting it now controls less than half of Myanmar. Yet, while the resistance has made major gains, there are concerns that Russian military aid could stall their momentum.

Zachary Abuza, a professor at the US National War College, described the visit as a “diplomatic win” for Hlaing, highlighting the potential for licensed drone production in Myanmar. “The opposition has taken heavy casualties, and their offensives have slowed. Licensed drone production is essential for the cash-strapped junta,” he said.

Beyond military aid, Russia has also assisted Myanmar in establishing a satellite imagery analysis centre—ostensibly for space research, but with potential intelligence applications for the junta.

While China remains Myanmar’s primary ally, experts believe Hlaing is playing Moscow and Beijing against each other to maximise support. However, China is likely to see Russian backing as complementing its own efforts to stabilise the junta rather than as a competing influence.

As Myanmar’s war drags on, the junta’s reliance on foreign military aid raises concerns of escalating violence. With Russian weapons and technology now in play, the future of the conflict remains uncertain—but for those on the ground, the stakes have never been higher.

20-03-25