US Senate Moves to Pass Resolution Calling for Reversal of Myanmar Coup

"Sanctions Restoration and Targeted Sanctions" Warning

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Yujin Cho] U.S. lawmakers from both parties are pushing a resolution demanding the Myanmar military withdraw its coup.

Democratic Senator Ben Cardin is set to announce the resolution along with Republican Senator Todd Young on the 4th (local time). Senator Cardin emphasized, "We have the means to act," adding that sanctions lifted after Myanmar transitioned to a democratic system could be reinstated.

He also stated, "Targeted sanctions can be imposed on the military leadership involved in the coup." He stressed, "The U.S. Senate will show the international community that it is ready," and that the bipartisan resolution with Senator Young will receive cross-party support.

Earlier, the White House emphasized that there would be bipartisan support for Myanmar and that it would cooperate with Congress.

Jake Sullivan, U.S. National Security Advisor at the White House, said at a White House press briefing on the 3rd, "The Biden administration is considering an executive order in response to the Myanmar military, targeting individuals and entities controlled by the military."

He added, "There is bipartisan support for Myanmar, and we will be able to work with Congress to respond to this coup," and "We will cooperate with allies and partners worldwide to respond to the coup."

On the 1st, the Myanmar military declared a one-year state of emergency, detaining key government figures including State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, a symbol of democratization, claiming last year's general election was invalid.