A devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake has struck central Myanmar, leaving at least 150 dead and many more feared trapped beneath collapsed buildings. The quake, which also shook neighbouring Thailand, has forced Myanmar’s ruling military junta to issue a rare plea for international aid.

 

A Desperate Appeal

Myanmar’s military chief, Min Aung Hlaing, visited a hospital in Naypyidaw, where survivors are being treated. Junta spokesperson Zaw Min Tun urged the global community to provide immediate humanitarian assistance, a striking move from a government that typically resists outside intervention. A state of emergency has been declared across six regions, including Mandalay, Sagaing, and Magway.

 

Trump’s Response Amid Aid Cuts

In Washington, President Donald Trump acknowledged the disaster, stating, “We’re going to be helping. We’ve already alerted the people. Yeah, it’s terrible what happened.” However, his administration’s drastic cuts to USAID and the State Department’s humanitarian programmes have left the US response capabilities in question.

Sarah Charles, a former senior USAID official, warned that the agency is now “in shambles,” lacking the staff and resources for an effective disaster response. The Trump administration recently announced the closure of USAID, raising doubts over how the US can deliver the promised aid.

 

A Region in Crisis

The earthquake's impact extends beyond Myanmar, with tremors felt as far as India, China, and Cambodia. In Bangkok, a 34-storey building collapsed, killing at least 10 people. The full scale of the disaster remains unclear, but with Myanmar’s infrastructure already weakened by years of conflict and economic turmoil, the need for international aid is urgent.

 

The coming days will test not only Myanmar’s ability to manage the crisis but also the effectiveness of global humanitarian efforts—particularly from an America now lacking its once-formidable aid network.

 

 

-2025-03-29

 

4 minutes ago, geovalin said:

raising doubts over how the US can deliver the promised aid.

Wire transfer of cash. Simple. Here's $20m.

7 hours ago, Harrisfan said:

Wire transfer of cash. Simple. Here's $20m.

yes, and we all know that $19m to Junta bosses and $1m  for aid.  

as the USAID spokewoman said,  staff drastically cut,  how can you send aid if you have no one to organise it and make it happen.  ?

 

Trump  =   egg on his face  

3 hours ago, steven100 said:

as the USAID spokewoman said,  staff drastically cut,  how can you send aid if you have no one to organise it and make it happen.  ?

 

Trump  =   egg on his face  

 

Easy.....put it on a government credit card.

 

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