On June 27 in Yangon, Min Aung Hlaing, the military council leader who is under international sanctions, expressed interest in Myanmar joining the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), which is led by sanctions-hit Russia. This statement was made during the fourth Europe-Asia Economic Forum (EEF 2025) plenary session held in Belarus. During the meeting, Min Aung Hlaing emphasized Myanmar’s keen interest in becoming a member of the EAEU family and earnestly requested support for Myanmar to quickly gain observer status in the organization.
The Eurasian Economic Union, established in 2015 under Russian leadership, comprises Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia, and Belarus – all nations under significant Russian influence. The organization represents an economic alliance of countries closely aligned with Russian interests in the Eurasian region. The EAEU’s formation and operation reflect Russia’s efforts to maintain economic and political influence in its traditional sphere of influence, particularly among former Soviet states.
Russia is currently facing extensive economic sanctions from Western nations, including the United States and European Union members, due to its invasion of Ukraine. International reports indicate that Russia is actively seeking various ways to circumvent these sanctions and maintain its economic stability. It’s noteworthy that most United States and European Union member states do not participate in or cooperate with the forums, meetings, and agreements of the Russia-led EAEU. This situation reflects the broader geopolitical tensions between Russia and Western nations, with the EAEU serving as one of several instruments through which Russia attempts to counter Western economic influence and sanctions.
