- Putin hosted Myanmar leader in Moscow as both governments deepen political, security and economic cooperation while Russia backs Myanmar amid Western pressure.
- Russia is involved in major Myanmar projects, including a nuclear plant, seaport and refineries, and supplies weapons used in the country’s conflict.
- Economic ties center on increased Russian exports and Myanmar agricultural and textile sales as Min Aung Hlaing seeks wider international recognition.
Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted Myanmar leader Min Aung Hlaing in Moscow on Tuesday. The meeting highlighted growing ties between the two countries.
The talks took place at the Grand Kremlin Palace on August 18. Putin said Russia and Myanmar were expanding cooperation in several areas. These include foreign policy, security and economic development.
The two countries have also held joint military exercises in recent years.
⚡️ President Vladimir Putin & President of Myanmar Min Aung Hlaing are holding talks at the Kremlin.
At the start of the meeting, Vladimir Putin expressed his condolences to the Myanmar Leader over the loss of life caused by the floods.
🇷🇺🇲🇲 #RussiaMyanmar pic.twitter.com/FsqvyezVa4
— MFA Russia 🇷🇺 (@mfa_russia) August 18, 2026
Russia and Myanmar expand cooperation
Russia is involved in several major projects planned for Myanmar.
These projects include a nuclear power plant, a seaport and oil refineries. They show how economic ties between Moscow and Naypyidaw are growing.
During the talks, Min Aung Hlaing thanked Putin for Russia’s political support. He also described Myanmar as a reliable partner for Moscow.
Russia has become one of Myanmar’s most important international supporters since the military seized power in February 2021.
Western governments responded to the takeover by imposing political and economic sanctions. They also criticized the military’s crackdown on opponents.
Moscow, however, has continued to support Myanmar’s military-backed authorities in international forums.
Russia and China are also among Myanmar’s major weapons suppliers. Russian-made military aircraft have been used during the country’s ongoing conflict with resistance forces and ethnic armed groups.
Economic ties remain a key focus
Economic cooperation was another major topic during the visit.
Russian Economic Development Minister Maxim Reshetnikov said Moscow wants to increase exports to Myanmar. These could include oil products, equipment and fertilizers.
At the same time, Russia is interested in buying more agricultural products and textiles from Myanmar.
The two governments hope stronger trade ties will support their broader political relationship.
Min Aung Hlaing strengthens foreign contacts
Tuesday’s trip marked Min Aung Hlaing’s seventh visit to Russia.
He has also traveled to China, India, Laos and Thailand as his government seeks wider international recognition.
Min Aung Hlaing was inaugurated as president in April after elections held in phases during December and January.
However, United Nations experts and human rights groups criticized the election process. They said it was neither free nor fair.
Opponents also argued that the vote was designed to strengthen military control over the country.
Despite international criticism, Russia and Myanmar continue to deepen their relationship.
The latest meeting in Moscow shows that both governments are seeking closer political, military and economic ties while facing pressure from Western countries.
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