Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to meet Myanmar leader Min Aung Hlaing at the Kremlin on Tuesday, Aug. 18, as the two countries seek to further strengthen their political, defense and economic partnership.

The meeting will take place during Min Aung Hlaing’s official visit to Russia. According to the Kremlin, the talks will focus on expanding bilateral cooperation across several sectors, alongside discussions on pressing international and regional developments. Several bilateral agreements are also expected to be signed during the visit.

According to Anadolu Ajansı, the meeting reflects the close relationship that has developed between Moscow and Myanmar’s military-led administration, particularly in defense and strategic sectors. Russia has remained one of Myanmar’s key international partners amid the country’s prolonged political crisis and Western pressure.

The two leaders have met several times in recent years, most recently at the Kremlin in March 2025. Russia has continued to deepen cooperation with Myanmar in military affairs while also pursuing interests in energy, infrastructure and other strategic areas.

Min Aung Hlaing has made several visits to Russia in recent years. He travelled to Moscow in March 2025 for talks with Putin, returned in May to attend a military parade marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory in World War II, and visited again in September for the World Atomic Week forum.

The latest meeting comes as Myanmar remains deeply embroiled in armed conflict, with the military government facing resistance from ethnic armed groups and pro-democracy forces across large parts of the country. Against this backdrop, closer engagement with Russia provides the Myanmar leadership with an important diplomatic and strategic partner beyond the region.

For Moscow, strengthening ties with Myanmar also offers a foothold in Southeast Asia and opportunities to expand its role in the region through defense cooperation, energy projects and infrastructure investment.

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