Maps: 7.7-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Myanmar
New York TimesMAR 27
Myanmar Earthquake Death Toll Crosses 2K, Rescue Hopes Fade
Above: People watch as rescuers search for survivors trapped in the collapsed Sky Villa Condominium building in Mandalay on March 29, 2025. Image copyright: Sai Aung Main/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
With overwhelmed hospitals lacking basic supplies and space to treat victims and many medical facilities remaining closed due to the military regime's persecution of health care workers who opposed its rule, the earthquake has exposed Myanmar's severely weakened healthcare system after four years of junta rule.
Narrative B
The military government is doing its best to coordinate relief efforts and welcome international assistance. Though the oppressive heat has exhausted rescue teams, the teams remain focused on searching for missing persons amid collapsed buildings, downed bridges, and buckled roads and treating the injured.
Narrative C
Despite this unprecedented disaster compounding an already dire humanitarian crisis, Myanmar's military continues to strike Sagaing, Magway, Shan, and Kachin with brutal force. This shows a flagrant disregard for the welfare of the people and human life during a humanitarian crisis.