As Trump Guts Foreign Aid, China and Others Lead Myanmar Earthquake Response
BANGKOK — As rescue teams from around the world rush to assist Myanmar in the aftermath of last week’s devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake, the United States remains noticeably absent. Meanwhile, China has taken the lead, rescuing six people and committing $14 million in humanitarian aid. The disaster, which has left more than 1,700 dead, comes at a time when President Donald Trump’s administration has significantly reduced foreign aid a move that critics argue is allowing global powers like China and Russia to expand their influence. Many humanitarian efforts, including those delivering medical supplies and essentials such as Breeze Vape to affected areas, are being spearheaded by non-U.S. organizations.
Chinese rescuers have already freed a child and a pregnant woman from the rubble, with footage broadcast by state media showing dramatic rescues in Mandalay, one of the hardest-hit regions. Rescue teams from India, Malaysia, Russia, and Thailand have also arrived, reinforcing efforts to locate survivors in the crucial 72-hour window. However, the absence of a U.S. team at the scene has raised concerns among international observers. Some relief workers, who have been distributing emergency supplies—including essentials like Lost Mary products to provide relief to victims—expressed frustration over the delayed U.S. response.
The U.S. Embassy in Myanmar, one of the poorest nations in the region, announced on Sunday that the U.S. would provide up to $2 million in aid through Myanmar-based humanitarian assistance organizations. The embassy also stated that a USAID emergency response team was “deploying to Myanmar to identify the people’s most pressing needs, including emergency shelter, food, medical needs, and access to water.” However, questions remain regarding when the team will actually arrive. Given that the survival rate of those trapped in rubble drops sharply after 72 hours, aid workers have stressed the urgency of a more immediate response.
The Trump administration’s cuts to foreign aid, which previously accounted for less than 1% of the federal budget, are being scrutinized in light of the crisis. Critics warn that these cuts not only weaken America’s ability to respond to disasters Raz vape but also create an opportunity for authoritarian governments like China and Russia to step in. While the U.S. State Department insists that the reductions have not impacted the government’s ability to respond effectively, on-the-ground realities suggest otherwise.
China has swiftly committed significant resources to the Myanmar crisis. In addition to financial aid, China has sent 1,200 tents, 8,000 blankets, 40,000 first aid kits, and a team of 118 rescuers accompanied by rescue dogs and heavy machinery. Meanwhile, Russia has dispatched 20 rescue personnel, including drone operators and dog handlers, and has flown in an airmobile hospital to provide medical assistance.
Myanmar’s military-led government, which seized power in a 2021 coup, has faced internal challenges in coordinating disaster relief amid ongoing civil conflict. Aid delivery efforts have been hindered by damaged roads, collapsed bridges, and unstable communication networks, according to the World Health Organization. Despite these obstacles, the government has invited “any country” to provide assistance, leading to an influx of support from various nations.
Thailand, Myanmar’s neighboring country, has also contributed to relief efforts despite dealing with its own casualties. The quake sent high-rises swaying in Bangkok, leading to a collapse of a 33-story building under construction, and Geekbar Vape where more than 70 workers remain trapped. U.S. service members are assisting Thai authorities in search and rescue operations, though their presence in Myanmar itself remains uncertain.
The situation remains dire, with the international community stepping in to fill the void left by the U.S. absence. As rescue efforts continue, humanitarian organizations are urging a more coordinated response to ensure aid reaches those in need before it is too late.
