USAID cuts will cost lives in Myanmar

After the November election in the United States, there was ample speculation among diplomats, NGOs, and activists about what the ascension of President Donald Trump would mean for US policy in regards to Myanmar. Many predicted a gradual disengagement, reflecting an inward turn towards “America First.” But then it became clear that Trump likely has no idea where Myanmar is located on a map, much less what’s actually happening there.Many predicted darker times for the National Unity Government (NUG), Myanmar’s democratically elected government in exile. Some speculated Myanmar’s democracy forces, who were previously championed by the Biden Administration, would suffer negative consequences. Much of this conjecture was rooted in the known reality that Trump doesn’t have a track record of supporting either human rights causes or democratic movements.Yet optimistic observations were made by some, considering the possibility that perhaps Trump’s hostility towards China. . .