August 5, 2024

Chairman of the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), U Khin Yi, has requested Russian assistance in combating armed conflicts between the military junta and ethnic armed resistance groups in Myanmar. This appeal was made during an interview with Russian news agency Sputnik.

In the interview, U Khin Yi stated, “What we primarily need from Russia is to assist in fighting terrorism. To achieve this, the current situation in Myanmar must be recognized not merely as a domestic political issue but as an act of terrorism. If Russia designates it as such, Russian government agencies can collaborate with us in our counter-terrorism efforts, aligning with our objectives.”

U Khin Yi did not specify which events or situations he was referring to as acts of terrorism.

Furthermore, he said, “We need support from Russia to understand the actual conditions within the country. Our party handles political matters to ensure security. Only through this approach can we collaborate with our ally, the United Russia Party, on counter-terrorism strategies.”

U Khin Yi also mentioned that the economic sanctions imposed following the military coup have adversely affected the country. He expressed that both the USDP and the United Russia Party oppose these sanctions.

Myanmar has been facing international sanctions due to the military coup, while Russia is under international sanctions for its invasion of Ukraine.