Myanmar Leader Attends Summit in Bangkok Amid Rising Earthquake Casualties

As Myanmar grapples with the aftermath of a catastrophic earthquake that has claimed over 3,000 lives, junta leader Min Aung Hlaing arrives in Bangkok for a regional summit. The quake, which struck central Myanmar, has left thousands injured and many more missing. Concerns over the accuracy of the death toll persist due to the inaccessibility of some affected regions.

The international community has responded with humanitarian aid, but relief efforts are hindered by ongoing civil unrest and inadequate infrastructure. The junta's recent temporary ceasefire aims to facilitate aid distribution, although the military remains engaged in airstrikes in rebel-held territories. Min Aung Hlaing's participation in the summit, which includes leaders from the Bay of Bengal nations, is notable given the typical exclusions for sanctioned leaders. The Thai government has proposed a joint statement addressing the disaster.

With violence and economic turmoil already prevalent in Myanmar, the earthquake has exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation. Humanitarian organizations are calling for the junta to ease restrictions on aid, while the UN warns that prompt action is needed before the monsoon season complicates aid efforts further.