Update: Myanmar’s military-led government has reported that the death toll from the devastating earthquake has risen to 1,002, with 2,376 others injured and 30 still missing. Officials warned that these numbers could continue to climb as rescue teams struggle to reach affected areas and collect accurate data.
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A devastating earthquake in Myanmar’s Mandalay region has left 694 people dead, 1,670 injured, and 68 missing as of Saturday morning, according to the country’s ruling military government. The massive quake, which struck earlier this week, has caused widespread destruction in a country already grappling with years of conflict and economic turmoil.
In a rare move, Myanmar’s military rulers issued an open call for international assistance. Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing invited “any country, any organization” to help with relief efforts, acknowledging the dire situation in a speech broadcast on state media.
The United States has responded to the plea, with President Donald Trump expressing Washington’s willingness to assist. Speaking from the Oval Office on Friday, Trump called the disaster “terrible” and confirmed that discussions with Myanmar’s government were already underway.
“It’s a real bad one, and we will be helping. We’ve already spoken with the country,” Trump told reporters.
Myanmar’s infrastructure and healthcare system have been severely weakened by four years of civil war following the military’s takeover in 2021. The ongoing conflict has left the country ill-equipped to handle large-scale disasters, exacerbating the impact of the earthquake.
The junta’s call for aid comes amid Myanmar’s growing alliance with Russia. Earlier this month, Min Aung Hlaing visited Moscow and met with President Vladimir Putin, discussing plans for Russia to help Myanmar build a small nuclear power plant. Despite U.S. pressure on Myanmar’s leadership over human rights concerns and political repression, the junta has continued to strengthen ties with Russia while facing increasing isolation from the West.
As Myanmar struggles with the aftermath of the deadly quake, the extent of international assistance remains unclear. However, the rare appeal for help signals the severity of the crisis facing the Southeast Asian nation.
