Regional leaders in Southeast Asia are divided over how to respond to Myanmar’s ruling military junta.  After the coup in 2021, ASEAN called for an immediate end to violence, constructive dialogue, the appointment of a special envoy, humanitarian assistance, and a visit by a regional delegation – conditions that the junta has largely ignored. Some governments favour renewed engagement with the ruling authorities, hoping dialogue may reduce conflict. Others insist recognition should wait until violence stops and meaningful participation from all groups is possible. A third group tries to balance principles with diplomacy, maintaining contact while withholding full acceptance. The lack of agreement has stalled regional efforts to bring peace, leaving civilians caught in ongoing instability years after the military takeover. Humanitarian needs continue, refugees cross borders, and uncertainty weakens trust between nations. The situation shows how difficult peacemaking becomes when security, national interests, and justice collide.