Mizzima-June 5
The Burma Research Institute (BRI) has released a comprehensive analysis warning of severe humanitarian and geopolitical consequences should US funding for Myanmar be reduced in the upcoming fiscal year. The report highlights the deepening crisis following four years of civil war, compounded by a devastating March earthquake and ongoing military violence. According to BRI’s report, 3.5 million people are internally displaced and 15 million face acute food insecurity. A magnitude 7.7 earthquake in March further exacerbated the situation, killing at least 3,800 people and leaving over 6 million in urgent need of aid. Despite a declared ceasefire, the junta has launched over 740 airstrikes in the weeks following the disaster, including attacks on schools and churches, killing dozens of civilians. The military junta now controls only 21% of the country, BRI says, while resistance forces – despite Chinese and Russian support for the junta – continue to gain ground. The report warns that if the U.S. withdraws support, China could consolidate influence over Myanmar, gaining access to critical minerals and maritime routes in the Indian Ocean. The Trump administration’s FY2026 budget proposal reduces funding for the State Department and USAID by $2.46 billion and eliminates key foreign assistance programs traditionally used to support Myanmar. Burma is notably absent from the budget text and recent testimony from senior officials. The Burma Research Institute urges Congress to maintain at least $121 million in aid for FY2026, in line with previous years. The proposed allocation includes $75 million for humanitarian and cross-border relief, $25 million for non-lethal support to resistance forces, and additional funding for justice, governance, and deserter reintegration programs. The report notes this is a pivotal moment for Myanmar in which sustained US support could help stabilize Myanmar and advance democratic governance. The alternative is to cede the future of the region to authoritarian influence. Read more at:
