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US Marks Myanmar Independence Day with Call to End Military Violence, Aid Crisis

The United States marked Myanmar's 78th Independence Day by reiterating support for the people and urging the military regime to end violence, allow humanitarian access, and release unjustly detained individuals. Myanmar has been in turmoil since the 2021 coup, with nearly 6,800 civilians killed and over 22 million now requiring assistance. The military junta is proceeding with a phased election process, with early results showing pro-military party gains. The UN warns the country is sliding deeper into a humanitarian disaster due to military offensives and aid restrictions.

Key Points: US Urges Myanmar Military to End Violence, Allow Aid on Independence Day

  • US calls for end to violence and release of detainees
  • Humanitarian crisis worsens with 22M needing aid
  • Junta proceeds with phased elections amid criticism
  • Myanmar marks 78 years since independence from Britain
3 min read

Washington reiterates support for Myanmar on Independence Day, raises concern over military rule

On Myanmar's Independence Day, the US expressed deep concern over the political and humanitarian crisis, urging the military to cease violence and allow aid access.

"The United States is deeply concerned about the ongoing crisis in Burma. – US Department of State"

Washington DC, January 4

The United States on Saturday expressed deep concern over the ongoing political and humanitarian crisis in Myanmar and urged the military regime to end violence, as the country marked the 78th anniversary of its independence.

"The United States is deeply concerned about the ongoing crisis in Burma. We urge the military regime to cease violence, ensure unhindered access to humanitarian assistance, release those unjustly detained, and engage in dialogue to pursue a peaceful and long-term end to the crisis," the US Department of State said in a statement issued on the occasion of Burma's Independence Day.

The State Department said Washington continues to stand with the people of Myanmar, also known as Burma, in their pursuit of peace, democracy and prosperity.

"The United States remains committed to the people of Burma and their resolve for a peaceful, fair, and prosperous future," the statement said.

The US added that meaningful progress in Myanmar is critical not just for the country but for regional stability.

"This is essential for a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific region," the statement added.

Myanmar has remained unstable since the military seized power in a coup in February 2021. According to UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk, nearly 6,800 civilians have been killed, while more than 22,000 people remain arbitrarily detained as of June 2025.

The humanitarian situation has continued to deteriorate, with the United Nations estimating that nearly 22 million people now require assistance and over 3.5 million have been displaced due to ongoing fighting across the country.

The UN has warned that Myanmar is sliding deeper into a humanitarian disaster, as military offensives, restrictions on aid delivery and reduced international support push millions towards hunger and insecurity.

Despite growing international criticism, the military junta has moved ahead with a phased election process. The first phase of voting began last week, with junta leaders claiming the exercise would pave the way for democracy after years of civil war.

Partial results released by the Union Election Commission (UEC) and reported in state media showed that the pro-military Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) won 87 of the 96 lower house seats declared so far.

Results from six additional townships are yet to be announced. Two more phases of voting are scheduled for January 11 and January 25.

Myanmar, officially known as the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, gained independence from British colonial rule on January 4, 1948, ending nearly six decades of foreign domination.

During World War II, Burmese forces fought alongside the British to drive out Japanese troops in 1945 that eventually led to the country's independence three years later.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Those numbers are staggering. 22 million people needing aid is almost unimaginable. The international community, including regional powers like India and ASEAN nations, must find a way to get humanitarian corridors open. This is a human tragedy unfolding on our doorstep. 🙏
V
Vikram M
The so-called elections are a complete sham. Winning 87 of 96 seats? It's a mockery of democracy. The junta is just trying to create a facade of legitimacy. The world should not recognize these results. India has a complex relationship with Myanmar due to border and security issues, but we must stand firmly for democratic values.
P
Priya S
It's sad to see a country that fought for independence from colonial rule now suffering under its own military. The people of Myanmar deserve peace and self-determination. Hope the ASEAN-led efforts gain more traction. India should use its diplomatic channels to support a genuine dialogue.
R
Rohit P
While the US concern is noted, sometimes these statements from Western nations feel repetitive. The real solution has to come from within the region. Countries like India, Thailand, and Indonesia need to take a more proactive lead. Our foreign policy has to balance strategic interests with humanitarian imperatives.
K
Kavya N
The refugee crisis spilling over borders is a real concern for our northeastern states. We have seen this before. A stable Myanmar is crucial for the stability of our entire region. The government is right to be cautious, but we must also lead with compassion. Jai Hind.

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