A magnitude-7.7 earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday, leaving at least 140 dead and triggering widespread destruction in Mandalay, the country’s second-largest city. The quake, followed by aftershocks, collapsed buildings and disrupted infrastructure, with tremors felt as far as Thailand, Laos, and the Chinese mainland.
Myanmar’s State Administration Council Chair Senior General Min Aung Hlaing warned of rising casualties and appealed for international assistance. In response, the Chinese Foreign Ministry confirmed emergency humanitarian aid would be dispatched, emphasizing China’s role as a “friendly neighbor.” A 37-member Chinese medical team flew from Kunming to Myanmar on Saturday to support rescue efforts.
U.S. President Donald Trump pledged assistance during a White House briefing, while State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce affirmed that USAID disaster teams remain operational despite recent staffing cuts. “We are ready to move now,” Bruce stated, highlighting plans to provide essentials like food and clean water.
International observers note the disaster’s potential to strain Myanmar’s fragile infrastructure, with analysts urging coordinated relief efforts. The tragedy underscores Asia’s vulnerability to natural disasters and the critical role of cross-border cooperation in crisis response.
