Jackson Purchase News

U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered a speech on the Senate floor commemorating the third anniversary of the military coup in Burma. McConnell expressed his concern over the plight of the Burmese people under the rule of the military, known as the Tatmadaw. He highlighted the displacement of 2.5 million people and the loss of over 15,000 lives due to the ongoing conflict.

McConnell emphasized the unjust imprisonment of political prisoners, including Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, the leader of Burma's pro-democracy movement. He acknowledged the pain and frustration endured by Suu Kyi and called for the unconditional release of all political prisoners in Burma.

Despite the repression and violence, McConnell praised the resilience of the Burmese people in their resistance against the military regime. He commended their unity across ethnic and religious lines, which has led to promising counter-offensives and significant defections from the pro-junta military. McConnell urged the international community, particularly the United States, to support the efforts of the Burmese people in their pursuit of a new democratic Burma.

McConnell called for increased pressure on the ruling junta and its enablers abroad. He highlighted the role of China and Russia in arming the Tatmadaw and expanding their influence in the region. McConnell urged his colleagues to consider the geostrategic implications of the conflict, emphasizing the importance of supporting the Burmese people in their fight for freedom and justice.

In addition, McConnell urged the Biden Administration to implement the bipartisan Burma Act and provide non-lethal assistance to those resisting the junta. He emphasized the need to engage ethnic groups and organizations on the front lines of the conflict.

McConnell concluded his remarks by reaffirming his commitment to standing with the people of Burma and supporting their aspirations for a brighter future. He called on his colleagues, the administration, and democratic countries around the world to join him in standing against the Tatmadaw and supporting the people of Burma in their struggle for democracy and justice.