UK and allies sanction Myanmar companies over airstrikes on civilians

The UK has imposed new sanctions on companies in Myanmar following government airstrikes on civilians in the country.

The six companies are said to be involved in providing either aviation fuel or restricted goods such as aircraft parts to the Myanmar military, which took power in a coup in 2021.

Since then, the military regime has used “increasingly brutal tactics” to remain in power, the Foreign Office said, culminating in airstrikes that killed dozens of civilians in August this year.

The EU and Canada have also imposed further sanctions on Myanmar in an effort to constrain its armed forces.

Catherine West, minister for the Indo-Pacific, said “human rights violations taking place across Myanmar” were “unacceptable” and had an “intolerable” impact on civilians.

She said: “Alongside the EU and Canada, we are today further constraining the military’s access to funds, equipment and resources.

“These sanctions will increase pressure on the Myanmar military. The UK remains steadfast in our support for the Myanmar people and their aspirations for a peaceful and democratic future.”

More than 3.4 million have been displaced from their homes because of fighting in Myanmar, with 18 million people said to be in need of humanitarian assistance.