A powerful earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday, March 28, 2025, causing devastation that was felt as far away as China and leading to significant panic in neighboring Thailand. The earthquake, initially reported to have a magnitude of 7.7, was centered near Mandalay, a city with a population of approximately 1.5 million people. The German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) later revised the magnitude to 6.9, while the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed similar findings.
In the aftermath of the disaster, the European Union announced its readiness to provide emergency assistance to both Myanmar and Thailand. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, expressed her condolences on social media, describing the scenes in Myanmar and Thailand as "heart-wrenching." She stated, "My thoughts are with the victims and their families. European Copernicus satellites are already assisting in rescue efforts. We are ready to provide additional support." This commitment reflects the EU's ongoing efforts to respond to international crises.
The situation in Thailand has been particularly dire, with reports confirming the collapse of a 30-story building under construction in Bangkok. Rescuers are currently working to locate and free 81 individuals trapped beneath the rubble. Tragically, the Thai Minister of Defense, Phumtham Wechachai, confirmed that three people have died as a result of the earthquake. The Thai government is mobilizing resources to assist in the recovery and rescue operations.
In response to the earthquake, France has taken precautionary measures by evacuating its embassy, consulate, institutes, and schools in Bangkok. French Minister of Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot, who was in Shanghai at the time, reported that there have been no casualties among French citizens. He emphasized that France is prepared to offer immediate assistance as soon as the need arises.
The earthquake has prompted a rare appeal for international aid from the leader of Myanmar's military junta, who acknowledged the significant damage caused by the quake, including the collapse of numerous buildings and bridges. This request marks a notable shift in the junta's approach to international relations, as they have previously been reluctant to seek external help.
Emergency responders in Myanmar are facing significant challenges as they work to treat numerous victims at a major hospital in Naypyidaw, the capital. The scale of the disaster is still unfolding, and the full extent of the damage is yet to be determined. Eyewitness accounts describe chaotic scenes, with many residents fleeing their homes in fear of aftershocks.
As rescue efforts continue, the international community is closely monitoring the situation. The European Union's Copernicus satellites are playing a crucial role in assessing the damage and aiding in the coordination of relief efforts. The urgency of the situation has galvanized various nations and organizations to offer their support.
In conclusion, the earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28 has triggered a humanitarian crisis, with immediate needs for rescue and recovery assistance. The response from the European Union and France highlights the global commitment to aid those affected by natural disasters. As rescue operations unfold, the focus remains on saving lives and providing support to the victims and their families.
