The international community has responded with concern to the coup in Myanmar. The United States and Australia called on the army to release arrested leader Aung San Suu Kyi and other prisoners.
The spokesman for UN CEO António Guterres called the developments a “big blow to democratic reforms”.
Australia says it is very concerned about the news about the situation. “We call on the military to follow the law, resolve disputes legally and immediately release anyone who has been unlawfully arrested,” Australian Foreign Secretary Marise Payne said in a statement.
US President Joe Biden has been briefed on the arrests. The US government says it will take action if the detainees are not released. “The US will take action if those responsible do not reverse these steps,” said a White House statement.
Countries in the region are also closely following the situation in Myanmar. Singapore and India have expressed serious concerns. “We believe that the rule of law and the democratic process must be adhered to,” reports the Indian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Malaysia is calling for a peaceful solution to the conflict over the elections in Myanmar. “Malaysia supports a continuation of the discussion between Myanmar leaders to avoid negative consequences for the people and the country of Myanmar,” said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. “Especially because of the current difficult situation surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic.”