According to military sources in Naypyidaw, coup leader Min Aung Hlaing personally wrote a response letter in Burmese to US President Trump. This response came after President Trump’s notification about imposing a 40% tariff on Myanmar exports starting August 1. Min Aung Hlaing sent his reply on July 9, demonstrating an apparent eagerness to maintain relations with the United States despite ongoing tensions. The response letter, initially handwritten in Burmese by Min Aung Hlaing himself, underwent translation and detailed editing by his advisory team and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The content of the response letter included several key points, notably addressing the military’s seizure of power under claims of election fraud, requesting the lifting of economic sanctions, and expressing gratitude for controls placed on media organizations and funding systems. Military sources in Naypyidaw indicated that Min Aung Hlaing shows particular enthusiasm for improving relations with the United States. The letter underwent a careful process where Min Aung Hlaing’s handwritten Burmese version was translated into English and meticulously edited by his advisory team and the foreign ministry staff, while maintaining the core message and responses based on his original draft.
This diplomatic correspondence represents a significant moment in international relations, particularly as an attempt to ease US economic sanctions. However, the military council’s continued use of violence against civilians, forced military service, oppression of the people, and human rights violations continue to draw international pressure and scrutiny. The military’s attempts at diplomatic engagement occur against a backdrop of ongoing civilian resistance and international condemnation of their actions since the coup. The response letter and its careful preparation demonstrate the military council’s concern about international relations, particularly with the United States, while they continue their oppressive actions against their own people.
