Russian Navy Ships Arrive in Myanmar for Joint Maritime Exercises
A group of Russian navy ships has arrived in war-torn Myanmar to participate in maritime exercises with the military junta’s navy, according to Myanmar state media.
Details of the Arrival
- Four corvettes and a logistics vessel from Russia’s Pacific Fleet arrived at Thilawa port in Yangon on Oct 20.
- They are in Myanmar to join the second Myanmar-Russia joint maritime security exercise.
Exercise Phases
The Russian ships will conduct “harbour phase” exercises, although specific details have not been provided.
On Oct 20, the junta announced a live-fire maritime security exercise in the waters of the north Andaman Sea from Oct 20 to Oct 24. Fishing boats and aircraft were warned to avoid the area, but it is unclear if Russian ships or personnel are participating in this exercise.
International Relations
Russia, along with China, is a close ally of the Myanmar junta, offering arms and diplomatic support as the military regime faces armed opposition.
The junta, facing pressure on the ground, is increasingly relying on its air force, which includes Russian Sukhoi Su-30s, MiG-29s, and Yak planes, according to analysts.
Political Support
General Min Aung Hlaing, the junta chief, has made multiple visits to Russia since leading the 2021 coup, including a meeting with President Vladimir Putin in 2022.
Russia has expressed support for the junta’s plans for new elections, while the junta has backed Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The United States has criticized the possibility of elections under the junta, calling them a “sham” and warning of potential bloodshed.
In August, China also voiced support for the military’s election plans. Sources close to the military have indicated that Gen Min Aung Hlaing will travel to China in November, marking his first known trip there since the coup.
Analysis
The arrival of Russian navy ships in Myanmar for joint maritime exercises highlights the close relationship between the military junta and its international allies, particularly Russia and China. The military regime’s reliance on foreign support, both diplomatically and militarily, underscores the challenges it faces in maintaining control amidst internal and external pressures.
Furthermore, the junta’s engagement in military exercises and its alignment with Russia’s geopolitical interests raise concerns about the potential implications for regional stability and security. The international community’s varying responses to the junta’s actions, from support to condemnation, reflect the complex dynamics at play in Myanmar’s political landscape.
For individuals both within and outside of Myanmar, these developments serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness of global politics and the impact of such relationships on local populations. The outcomes of these joint exercises and the broader implications of international involvement in Myanmar’s affairs are crucial factors to monitor for those concerned about the country’s future and the broader implications for regional stability.