World World In this photo released by Xinhua News Agency, rescuers carry out search and rescue on the damaged buildings in the aftermath of an earthquake in Mandalay, Mar 31, 2025. (Photo: Xinhua via AP/Jiang Chao) The United States has announced US$2 million in support to aid organizations on the ground in Myanmar, where the earthquake death toll has surpassed 2000. "A US aid team of humanitarian experts based in the region are traveling to Burma now to identify the people's most pressing needs, including emergency shelter, food, medical needs and access to water," State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce told reporters, using Myanmar's old name. The earthquake struck Friday, on the same day that Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he was formally dissolving the US Agency for International Development (USAID), arguing that the "gains were too few and the costs were too high," after cutting more than 80 percent of its projects. China, Russia and India have already sent teams to Myanmar. Historically the United States, under the guidance of USAID, has swiftly dispatched rescue teams and relief around the world following earthquakes and other natural disasters. Asked if the US response was slower than usual, Bruce said: "I would reject the notion that this is obviously a result of the USAID cuts and that kind of funding. There are many different elements to this dynamic." She did not elaborate but said that the United States "finally" had a formal request from Myanmar, whose military-run government is under heavy sanctions by Washington. She also said that the US$2 million was going directly to organizations already on the ground. In 2008, when Myanmar was also under military rule and hit by a devastating cyclone, the US military managed to air-lift in 500 000 kg of relief goods. Myanmar's junta has long been close to China. The United States had sought to gain influence in Myanmar as it transitioned to democracy, but the opening abruptly ended in February 2021 when the military toppled the civilian leadership. Get our pick of top stories and thought-provoking articles in your inbox Stay updated with notifications for breaking news and our best stories Get WhatsApp alerts Join our channel for the top reads for the day on your preferred chat app Copyright© Mediacorp 2025. Mediacorp Pte Ltd. All rights reserved. We know it's a hassle to switch browsers but we want your experience with CNA to be fast, secure and the best it can possibly be. To continue, upgrade to a supported browser or, for the finest experience, download the mobile app. Upgraded but still having issues? Contact us