The European Union warned it is considering sanctions on Myanmar while the United States penalised two more generals for links to the military coup, as Western countries sought to press the junta to avoid a violent crackdown after weeks of protests. A general strike shut businesses in the Southeast Asian country on Monday (22 February) as huge crowds gathered peacefully despite a warning from authorities that confrontation could get people killed. UN Special Rapporteur Tom Andrews said millions had marched in a “breathtaking” turnout, despite the junta’s threat. “The generals are losing their power to intimidate and with it, their power. It is past time for them to stand down, as the people of Myanmar stand up,” Andrews said on Twitter.