• Myanmar's junta leader Min Aung Hlaing praised Trump in a letter regarding tariffs.
• Hlaing seeks sanctions relief and has proposed lower tariffs on U.S. goods.
• The correspondence marks the first U.S. acknowledgment of the junta's rule since the 2021 coup.
• US officials have raised concerns over the junta’s claims of electoral fraud.
• The junta relies increasingly on allies China and Russia amidst civil unrest.

Myanmar’s junta chief, Min Aung Hlaing, extended a rare commendation to former President Donald Trump in a letter where he aligned himself with Trump's debunked claims regarding the 2020 U.S. presidential election, stating, "Similar to the challenges you encountered... we also experienced major electoral fraud and significant irregularities," according to SCMP, Channel News Asia, and CBS News.

This outreach follows a letter from Trump informing Hlaing of a planned 40% tariff on imports from Myanmar, which he has proposed to reduce to between 10 and 20%. Hlaing is reportedly seeking to enhance trade relations while asking Trump for the easing or removal of sanctions that have been imposed following the military takeover in 2021, according to Channel News Asia and SCMP.

Hlaing's letter is significant as it marks the junta's first known direct communication with the U.S. in over four years and is perceived as a potential acknowledgment of its rule by the U.S. government. Richard Horsey from the International Crisis Group commented that this communication is a notable indication of U.S. recognition, stating, "It's certainly the first public indication I've seen of US acknowledgement of MAH," according to Channel News Asia, CBS News, and Channel News Asia.

Since seizing power, the junta has struggled with a failing economy and a growing insurgency against its rule. The military's stated attempts to gain legitimacy and relations with the U.S. appear to be hindered by its violent suppression of dissent, which has led to numerous sanctions from the U.S. State Department against its leaders, as reported by SCMP, Channel News Asia, and CBS News.