Myanmar’s Coup Will Further Test the U.S.'s Ability to Counterbalance China

Myanmar's military will use its recent coup to reverse the erosion of its political power and influence, with the pace of return to civilian control determining the reaction of global powers intent on limiting China's opportunities to strengthen its position in a regionally important country. On Feb. 1, Myanmar’s military, the Tatmadaw, announced a state of emergency under the constitution that will allow the commander-in-chief of the defense services to take on all executive, judicial and legislative powers. This followed the early morning detention of State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, President U Win Myint and key National League for Democracy (NLD) officials nationwide. The military also suspended communications, bank access, flights and road travel in many areas. ...