China, Russia, and neighboring Southeast Asian countries like Thailand and Malaysia have swiftly sent emergency teams and resources, but the U.S., once a leader in humanitarian aid, has yet to mobilize significant support.
The U.S.A.I.D. has experienced cutbacks under the Trump administration, and although President Trump claimed assistance was on the way, a U.S.A.I.D. assessment team will not reach the devastated areas until later in the week. Myanmar’s military government reported over 1,700 casualties and anticipates further increases as rescue operations continue.
In contrast, Chinese responders—including specialized search-and-rescue teams with trained dogs—are already operating on the ground in Mandalay, a city severely impacted by the quake. China has pledged $14 million for relief efforts, providing not only manpower but also medical supplies and technological resources.
Commenting on the implications of the U.S. response—or lack thereof—Michael Schiffer, former U.S.A.I.D. official for Asia, highlighted that America's perceived charitable actions play a vital role in its foreign policy. The swift assistance from other nations, particularly China, sends a powerful signal about the shifting landscape of global humanitarian aid.
As more countries mobilize, the slow response from the United States raises questions about its commitment and effectiveness in international disaster relief efforts, further underscoring the urgent need for a reevaluation of its aid strategies in times of crisis.
The U.S.A.I.D. has experienced cutbacks under the Trump administration, and although President Trump claimed assistance was on the way, a U.S.A.I.D. assessment team will not reach the devastated areas until later in the week. Myanmar’s military government reported over 1,700 casualties and anticipates further increases as rescue operations continue.
In contrast, Chinese responders—including specialized search-and-rescue teams with trained dogs—are already operating on the ground in Mandalay, a city severely impacted by the quake. China has pledged $14 million for relief efforts, providing not only manpower but also medical supplies and technological resources.
Commenting on the implications of the U.S. response—or lack thereof—Michael Schiffer, former U.S.A.I.D. official for Asia, highlighted that America's perceived charitable actions play a vital role in its foreign policy. The swift assistance from other nations, particularly China, sends a powerful signal about the shifting landscape of global humanitarian aid.
As more countries mobilize, the slow response from the United States raises questions about its commitment and effectiveness in international disaster relief efforts, further underscoring the urgent need for a reevaluation of its aid strategies in times of crisis.
