The RecordExhibit 16
A three-person response to Myanmar's deadly earthquake
CriticizedLast checked Sep 30, 2026
Criticized means: Legal, or a policy choice, but widely condemned.
After a 7.7 earthquake killed more than 3,300 people, the downsized U.S. aid system sent a three-person team, whose members were told they'd be laid off while working in the quake zone.
What happened
Former USAID staff said the people and programs that normally deploy within hours had already been cut, and U.S. aircraft in nearby Thailand never took off. China, Russia, India and others rushed in rescue teams and supplies.
Where it stands
A policy failure, not a legal case. It was the first major disaster after the USAID cuts.
The administration's side
The U.S. pledged at least $9 million and said its cuts target waste, not lifesaving aid.
Sources
Permanent link: https://unredactedrecord.com/e/myanmar/