Myanmar is currently at a pivotal moment, and the U.S. has the opportunity to turn the country’s crisis into a foreign policy success story. Since the 2021 military coup, violence has escalated, displacing millions and creating a severe humanitarian crisis. Ethnic and religious minority regions like Chin, Kachin, Karen, and Karenni states have suffered disproportionately from airstrikes and attacks.
Amid this turmoil, China has stepped in, expanding its influence over the military junta and gaining control of critical infrastructure projects. For the U.S., this is a chance to align its humanitarian values with strategic interests. By lifting the foreign aid freeze, supporting Myanmar’s pro-democracy movement, and pushing back against China, the U.S. can address both the immediate crisis and the long-term geopolitical implications of the conflict in Myanmar.
Restoring U.S. aid to Myanmar is crucial. The aid freeze has already had a devastating impact on vulnerable communities, halting critical programs that provide early warning systems for airstrikes, document war crimes, and deliver humanitarian assistance. In conflict zones like Chin State, where the predominantly Christian population has long faced systemic oppression, the aid freeze threatens lives. U.S. support has been vital for these communities, enabling local resistance and holding the military accountable. Without U.S. assistance, Myanmar’s pro-democracy forces will be severely weakened, leaving the field open for China to solidify its dominance.
Supporting Myanmar’s pro-democracy movement is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic necessity. China’s deepening foothold in Myanmar presents a direct challenge to U.S. interests in Southeast Asia. The Myanmar junta’s new law allowing foreign companies to provide armed security services paves the way for Chinese private military forces to protect China’s vast economic interests, such as oil and gas pipelines. By relying on Chinese security firms, the junta is ceding more control to China, further destabilizing the region. If Myanmar falls deeper under China’s influence, the region will be less stable, and democratic movements will be stifled.
The U.S. Congress can play a pivotal role in championing Myanmar’s pro-democracy cause, which has strong bipartisan support. Congress already has the necessary tools to take action, including the Burma Act, which provides a clear framework for U.S. engagement, and Executive Order 14014, signed by President Donald Trump, which authorizes sanctions and other measures against Myanmar’s military regime.
By pushing this agenda forward, Congress can convince the administration to provide full diplomatic, political, and financial backing for Myanmar’s pro-democracy forces – particularly its oppressed Christian minorities. Supporting these communities not only upholds U.S. values, such as religious freedom, but also serves strategic interests. By curbing China’s growing influence in Myanmar, this policy can become a win for the Trump Administration’s “America First” agenda. A democratic transition in Myanmar will help protect U.S. geopolitical and economic interests while fostering stability in Southeast Asia, ensuring that democracy, human rights, and the rule of law prevail in this critical region.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s leadership is key to seizing this opportunity. Known for his strong stance on democracy and human rights while a senator, Rubio can push for lifting the aid freeze and restoring U.S. leadership on Myanmar. By framing this policy within the “America First” agenda, Rubio can demonstrate how addressing the Myanmar crisis protects U.S. interests. Supporting a stable, democratic Myanmar will counter China’s ambitions, create economic opportunities, and strengthen regional alliances, particularly through cooperation with Malaysia, which is leading ASEAN efforts to pressure Myanmar’s regime.
In conclusion, the U.S. has a rare opportunity to turn the Myanmar crisis into a foreign policy success. Lifting the aid freeze, supporting the pro-democracy movement, and curbing China’s influence will protect vulnerable communities, strengthen U.S. leadership, and advance strategic interests in Southeast Asia. Secretary Rubio’s decisive action could ensure a brighter future for both Myanmar and the U.S. in this critical region. The time to act is now.