Putin's New Playground: The Energy Deals that Bind Russia's President Vladimir Putin has long been known for his ability to cultivate relationships with authoritarian leaders, and his meeting with Myanmar's junta chief turned president Min Aung Hlaing is the latest example of this practice.
Beneath the surface of their warm words and new energy projects lies a complex web of interests that reflects Russia's own vulnerabilities.
Myanmar has been in turmoil since 2021, when the military ousted the elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi, sparking a civil war that has left thousands dead or displaced.