In a bold display of solidarity, activist groups across Yangon have conducted a campaign posting warrant photos of military leader Min Aung Hlaing and Russian President Vladimir Putin throughout the city. This action demonstrates the Myanmar people’s support for Ukraine while highlighting the parallel struggles against authoritarian forces in both nations. The campaign was orchestrated by four allied revolutionary groups known as the Yangon 4 Brothers (Y4B), comprising the Linn Yaung Ni Youth Organization (LYNYO), Mayangone Democratic Front (MDF), Kyimyindaing Networks (KMD18), and the Owl Community.
The campaign serves multiple purposes, primarily highlighting the connection between Myanmar’s struggle against military dictatorship and Ukraine’s fight against Russian aggression. The activists strategically placed photos of international arrest warrants issued for both Min Aung Hlaing and Vladimir Putin, emphasizing the international community’s recognition of their alleged crimes. The materials posted around Yangon also included messages of solidarity with the Ukrainian people, demonstrating the shared experience of civilians facing oppression and violence from authoritarian forces. This action particularly underscores the military junta’s close relationship with Russia, which continues to supply weapons used against Myanmar’s civilian population.
The significance of this campaign extends beyond mere symbolic support. It represents the courage of Myanmar’s resistance movements, who continue their activities despite the severe risks of arrest, torture, and persecution by the military regime. The coordinated effort by these four prominent Yangon-based revolutionary groups demonstrates the ongoing strength and organization of the resistance movement, even in the face of intense military suppression. By linking Myanmar’s struggle with Ukraine’s resistance against Russian aggression, the campaign aims to draw increased international attention to both causes and amplify calls for stronger action against both the Myanmar military junta and its Russian allies who enable their continued oppression of civilians.
