Min Aung Hlaing blames ASEAN, claims pressure stems from social media misinformation

By Admin 22 Apr 2026

DMG Newsroom

22 April 2026, Nay Pyi Taw

President U Min Aung Hlaing has criticized some ASEAN member states, claiming they are exerting pressure based on misinformation about the current situation in Myanmar circulating on social media.

He made the remarks during a meeting of the National Defence and Security Council held on April 21.

Myanmar’s self-appointed president said he had pledged to cooperate with ASEAN to the best of his ability during his presidential inauguration and claimed that he is currently working with the points outlined in the ASEAN Five Point Consensus.

“ASEAN made five demands to the military leader. There has been no significant progress in fulfilling those demands. Instead, war crimes are being committed, offensives against ethnic armed groups continue, and activists are being arrested and imprisoned. It appears that ASEAN has yet to find these actions acceptable,” said a political activist.

Following the military coup in Myanmar, the Five Point Consensus was established to address the situation, including the issue of war crimes allegedly committed by the military council.

Although Min Aung Hlaing agreed to these points, they have not been implemented in practice, and the ASEAN Five Point Consensus remains stalled to this day.

Despite being ignored by international actors including ASEAN member states, the regime has maintained close ties with China and Russia, relying on their support while facing allegations of committing war crimes across the country.

The junta chief is attempting to gain acceptance within ASEAN by planning an electoral transition, positioning himself for the presidency under a self-designed framework, and relying on backing from China and Russia.

“From the perspective of the junta chief, he has no other choice. It seems he feels he does not need to care about other countries because he holds the hands of China and Russia. In fact, one could say Myanmar is currently under the influence of China and Russia,” a political analyst observed.

Analysts suggest that China, driven by its strategic interests, will continue to support the military backed government and promote its own economic benefits.

Currently, China is planning to implement the BRI project running from Kunming through Mandalay to Kyaukphyu.