In late March 2025, a catastrophic 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar, leaving over 3,000 dead and thousands more injured. The disaster compounded the nation’s ongoing crises, including a civil war, economic hardship, and a fragile healthcare system. While countries like China, Russia, and India swiftly mobilized aid, the United States’ response was notably limited, highlighting a significant shift in global humanitarian leadership.​

A Nation in Crisis

The earthquake’s epicenter near Mandalay caused widespread devastation, collapsing buildings, damaging infrastructure, and overwhelming the already strained healthcare system. The World Health Organization reported that the national healthcare system was “overwhelmed,” with an urgent need for medical supplies and support. The disaster’s impact was exacerbated by ongoing civil conflict and damaged infrastructure, hindering rescue operations.

U.S. Response: A Departure from Leadership

Historically, the U.S. has been at the forefront of global disaster responses. However, in this instance, the U.S. pledged a modest $2 million in aid and deployed a small assessment team, a stark contrast to its typical contributions in similar crises. This limited engagement is attributed to significant cuts to the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), which has seen 83% of its programs eliminated and numerous staff layoffs. ​

Critics argue that these reductions have hampered the U.S.’s ability to respond effectively to international disasters, leaving a void that other nations are eager to fill. Jeremy Konyndyk, a former USAID official, described the situation as “a total abdication of decades of U.S. leadership in the world.” ​

Geopolitical Implications

The U.S.’s limited response has opened the door for other nations to expand their influence in the region. China, for instance, has pledged over $13.7 million in aid and deployed more than 600 personnel across 30 teams to assist in relief efforts. This proactive approach not only addresses immediate humanitarian needs but also strengthens China’s strategic position in Southeast Asia.​
The shift in humanitarian leadership raises concerns about the U.S.’s soft power and its role in global affairs. By stepping back, the U.S. risks ceding influence to nations with different strategic interests, potentially reshaping the geopolitical landscape in the region.​

Challenges on the Ground

The situation in Myanmar is further complicated by the military junta’s control over aid distribution. Reports indicate that the junta has restricted humanitarian efforts in opposition-controlled areas, making it difficult for aid to reach those most in need. Additionally, ongoing conflict and infrastructure damage have hindered rescue operations, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.​

Myanmar’s devastating earthquake has not only highlighted the country’s vulnerabilities but also exposed a significant shift in global disaster response dynamics. The U.S.’s limited engagement, driven by internal policy changes and budget cuts, contrasts sharply with the proactive approaches of nations like China. As the international community continues to respond to the crisis, the long-term implications of this shift in leadership remain to be seen.