Earthquake victims in Myanmar are facing significant challenges as USAID’s support diminishes, leading to a slower response compared to previous disasters. While the US pledged two million dollars and a response team days after the quake, countries like China, Russia, and India quickly mobilized aid efforts. The death toll from the 7.7 magnitude earthquake has already surpassed 2,700, with concerns about rising casualties. Meanwhile, geopolitical dynamics are shifting as Russia and China strengthen their influence in the region.
Are earthquake victims in Myanmar facing challenges due to the reduction of USAID? Aid from the United States, once a significant contributor, is arriving slowly as Russia and China step in to fill the void.
The downsizing of the US development agency USAID could significantly impact relief efforts in the earthquake-affected regions of Myanmar. Unlike previous instances where American support was rapid, the current response has been sluggish.
Just two days following the devastating quake last Friday, the US government announced a commitment to send a team by Wednesday and provide financial assistance of two million dollars to various aid organizations.
By this time, China, India, and Russia had already dispatched aid teams. The initial 72 hours post-earthquake are deemed crucial for effective disaster response.
Henry Braun from World Hunger Aid reported that the visuals emerging from the disaster zone in Southeast Asia are harrowing.
Concerns Over Delayed Deployment
Typically, the US government mobilizes a relief team within hours after a major earthquake, as noted by former USAID official Chris Milligan during an NPR interview. For instance, following the 2023 earthquake in Turkey, 200 aid workers were quickly deployed.
The 7.7 magnitude quake that struck Myanmar resulted in catastrophic damage. As per the military junta’s latest updates, the death toll stands at a minimum of 2,719, with the number expected to rise beyond 3,000.
The aftermath of the earthquake leaves Myanmar’s situation precarious and uncertain.
Is the USA Losing Its Influential Role?
The United States, particularly through USAID, has historically been a key player in global disaster response. However, the agency has faced significant cuts since President Donald Trump took office, leading to a freeze on foreign aid and the layoff of numerous employees. On the day Myanmar experienced the earthquake, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio effectively announced the agency’s dissolution.
Despite assurances from the US government that these budget cuts would not hinder immediate aid capabilities, the response has been noticeably slower than in previous crises.
‘The number of dead and injured will rise dramatically,’ warns Florian Bahrdt, ARD Singapore, reporting from Mae Sot/Thailand on the post-quake situation in Myanmar
‘Other nations have mobilized, while we have faltered due to the weakened state of our intervention capabilities,’ criticized former USAID employee Milligan.
In response to inquiries about the lack of American presence amid other foreign aid efforts, a department spokesperson indicated that it is not always necessary for US personnel to be on-site, as they collaborate with local partners in Myanmar.
The situation in Myanmar remains dire following the earthquake.
Russia and China Step In
Shortly after the quake, China dispatched aid teams, despite facing challenges of its own, committing 12.7 million euros in assistance. China maintains a strategic alliance with Myanmar, receiving essential raw materials and integrating the country into its ambitious ‘New Silk Road’ initiative.
Through investments across Southeast Asia, Africa, and South America, China has established itself as a significant influencer, often leading to dependency through financial mechanisms.
Many citizens in Myanmar find themselves in distress as US development aid has been halted.
Moscow’s Support for the Military Junta
Meanwhile, Russia sent two planes carrying 120 aid workers and equipment to Myanmar on Friday, including the establishment of a field hospital. The Kremlin has maintained a strong relationship with Myanmar’s military leadership, with junta leader Min Aung Hlaing visiting Moscow just last month.
India, Myanmar’s neighboring country, is also keen on preserving diplomatic ties through prompt aid, despite the military regime. For India, Myanmar serves as a vital economic gateway to Southeast Asia, home to approximately two million individuals of Indian descent.
If you wish to assist the people in Southeast Asia, you can find various aid organizations and their banking information for donations.
This information was initially reported by tagesschau24 on April 1, 2025, at 10:00 AM.