Putin, Myanmar Junta Chief Discuss Deepening Ties in Moscow

In a meeting in Moscow, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Myanmar's military junta chief Min Aung Hlaing discussed strengthening diplomatic, defense, energy, and investment cooperation between the two countries. The discussions come amidst international condemnation of the Myanmar military's violent crackdown on pro-democracy protesters following the 2021 coup. The talks focused on expanding bilateral relations, with both leaders emphasizing the importance of deepening ties. However, the meeting has drawn criticism from human rights groups, who argue that it legitimizes the Myanmar junta's rule and undermines efforts to hold the military accountable for its human rights abuses. The Russian government has maintained close relations with Myanmar's military despite international sanctions, providing military equipment and economic support. The latest discussions suggest that Moscow is seeking to further strengthen its ties with the isolated junta, as it faces growing international isolation and domestic unrest.