Daijiworld Media Network- Washington

Washington, Jul 25: In a move raising international eyebrows, the United States has lifted sanctions on several Myanmar military-linked businessmen and firms, just weeks after junta chief Min Aung Hlaing sent a letter praising US President Donald Trump.

A notice issued by the US Treasury confirmed the removal of sanctions on KT Services and Logistics, Myanmar Chemical and Machinery Company, and Suntac Technologies, along with their respective heads. These firms and individuals were previously blacklisted for close ties with Myanmar’s military regime and for supporting arms production.

KT Services and its CEO Jonathan Myo Kyaw Thaung had been branded as junta "cronies" in 2022 after securing Yangon’s port lease from a military firm. The other entities were accused of manufacturing tanks, mortars, and other military equipment.

The development follows a dramatic exchange of letters between Trump and Myanmar’s junta leader. Earlier this month, Trump sent a missive to Min Aung Hlaing as part of his global tariff campaign, warning of a 40 percent levy unless a new trade deal was reached. In reply, Min Aung Hlaing lauded Trump’s “strong leadership” and expressed “sincere appreciation,” even applauding him for shutting down US-funded media critical of the Myanmar regime.

The White House has not issued a statement on the lifting of sanctions, and the Treasury notice provided no justification for the decision. The silence has stirred speculation about the political motivations behind the move, especially as it comes amid renewed scrutiny of US foreign policy under Trump's influence.

The junta’s 2021 coup ousted Myanmar’s civilian government, plunging the country into civil war, with thousands killed, over 3.5 million displaced, and nearly half the population now living in poverty. The sudden easing of US restrictions has been met with concern from human rights groups, who fear it signals a shift in Washington’s stance toward the embattled regime.