UN, US, and Europe Strongly Condemn Death of Myanmar Protester: "We Stand with the Citizens"

On the 20th (local time), protest participants against the coup clashed with military and police forces in Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city.
[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Seungjin Lee] On the 20th (local time), the United Nations and the United States strongly condemned the military and police in Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city, for firing live bullets at protesters opposing the military coup, resulting in numerous casualties.

Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, tweeted, "I condemn the deadly use of force in Myanmar," adding, "It is unacceptable to use lethal force, threats, and attacks against peaceful protesters." He emphasized on the 21st, "Everyone has the right to peaceful protest. I urge all to respect the election results and return to democracy."

Ned Price, spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State, also tweeted, "We are deeply concerned by reports that Burmese (Myanmar) military and police are firing on protesters and continuously detaining and attacking demonstrators and others," stressing, "We stand with the people of Burma."

European countries immediately issued statements and announced they would consider related measures after learning that two protesters opposing the coup had died and dozens were injured.

Josep Borrell, High Representative of the European Union (EU) for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, posted on Twitter, "I strongly condemn the military's brutal violence against peaceful civilian protesters," and urged, "Myanmar's military and all security forces must immediately cease violence against civilians."

UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab also tweeted, "The shooting of peaceful protesters in Myanmar has crossed a line," adding, "We will consider further measures with members of the international community against actions that undermine democracy and suppress dissent." Earlier, the UK Foreign Office announced asset freezes and travel bans on Myanmar's Defense Minister and three ministers and deputy ministers of the Interior Ministry.

Following the bloody incident on the 15th, when military and police fired live bullets at protesters in Mandalay, High Representative Borrell stated at a meeting with EU foreign ministers, "We will discuss the recent situation in Myanmar to make appropriate decisions."

On the 19th, ten days after a woman who participated in an anti-coup protest in the capital Naypyidaw was shot by police and fell into a brain-dead state, she finally passed away, marking the first civilian death. The international community is increasing pressure on Myanmar's military government. The EU is also reportedly discussing sanctions against Myanmar's military forces.