The death toll from the devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28 has risen to 3,354, with over 4,500 injured and 220 still missing, according to updated figures released by state media on Saturday. The 7.7-magnitude quake caused widespread destruction, flattening buildings and crippling infrastructure across the country.
More than a week after the disaster, millions remain affected, with many people still without proper shelter. Some are sleeping outdoors due to the loss of their homes, while others fear further collapses from aftershocks. The United Nations estimates that over three million people may have been impacted by the quake, which has only worsened the humanitarian crisis in a country already struggling with the effects of four years of civil conflict.
The UN’s top humanitarian official visited the quake-hit city of Mandalay on Saturday, where the damage near the epicenter remains extensive. He renewed his appeal for international assistance to support the recovery efforts.
Meanwhile, the United States announced an increase in its aid to Myanmar, pledging an additional $7 million on top of the $2 million already committed. The assistance is being funneled through humanitarian groups operating on the ground and will help provide emergency shelter, food, medical care, and clean water, according to State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce.
However, Washington also emphasized the need for burden-sharing. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Friday that it was unreasonable for the United States to shoulder the majority of global humanitarian aid alone. “There are a lot of other capable countries — China, India — and everyone should contribute,” he said during a press conference in Brussels.
Rubio also addressed criticism over the speed of the US response, attributing it in part to the dismantling of the US humanitarian aid agency under the previous administration, which left many aid workers without jobs just as the quake struck.
In contrast, neighboring countries such as China, India, and Russia were quick to send rescue teams to Myanmar, demonstrating the regional urgency of the disaster response.
The updated death toll was announced shortly after Myanmar’s military ruler, Min Aung Hlaing, returned from a rare overseas appearance at a regional summit in Bangkok. His presence drew backlash, with protesters labeling him a “murderer” and anti-junta groups criticizing his inclusion in the summit.
The UN has also reported that the junta has continued military operations since the quake, including at least 16 attacks despite a temporary ceasefire declared last Wednesday.
