In the aftermath of the devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28, 2025, international rescue teams have mobilized to aid in recovery efforts. Among the first responders are well-equipped teams from China and Russia, who have quickly established field hospitals and participated in rescue operations, demonstrating their commitment to delivering aid. Chinese rescue teams have notably rescued several survivors, including an elderly man and a pregnant woman, mere days after the quake. However, the United States, known for its robust disaster-response capabilities, has been strikingly absent from the ground in Myanmar, apart from a small three-member assessment team sent several days post-quake.
As reported, the death toll from the earthquake has tragically exceeded 3,000, with numerous Asian and Western governments deploying rescue teams comprised of hundreds of personnel. Countries such as Vietnam, India, and the United Arab Emirates have also pledged both financial assistance and manpower to assist the beleaguered nation. The absence of U.S. teams is particularly notable, given their historical role as a major actor in disaster response globally.
This lack of U.S. presence can be attributed to recent policy changes and strategic shifts implemented during the Trump administration. The administration dismantled longstanding humanitarian initiatives and funding from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), which had effectively operated in Myanmar for decades. Aid officials have expressed concern that this withdrawal from established humanitarian commitments has resulted in increased suffering and loss of life as the international community steps in to fill the void.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has defended the administration's strategy, rejecting claims that the U.S. is retreating from its global responsibilities. He emphasized the importance of other wealthy countries stepping up their aid contributions, reiterating that the U.S. is not abandoning its commitment to helping those in need. Nevertheless, criticism persists as leading Senate Democrats called for an escalation of disaster aid to Myanmar, lamenting the visual of Chinese teams taking a central role in rescue efforts where the U.S. once led.
In the days following the earthquake, the U.S. announced a modest $9 million financial aid package, which pales in comparison to the typical assistance that would be mobilized for a disaster of this magnitude. Historically, the U.S. would have deployed specialized disaster response teams within 24 hours, often numbering between 20 and 200 personnel. Unfortunately, recent budget cuts and administrative changes have severely limited the operational capacity of these critical rescue resources.
Amid mounting international aid, including a $13 million contribution from the UK, the reality of the U.S.'s diminished role in foreign aid and disaster relief is stark. With tens of millions in unpaid debts owed by the U.S. government to various humanitarian organizations, many non-profits are struggling to maintain their support services for disaster-stricken populations. The environment created by the Trump administration's austerity measures has forced many organizations to scale back their operations significantly.
As rescue and recovery efforts continue, the situation in Myanmar underscores the complex interplay between international aid, policy decisions, and the immediate needs of populations suffering from natural disasters. The impact of America's strategic retreat from its historical role in humanitarian assistance raises questions about the future of its influence and capabilities on the global stage amidst such crises.
