Senator Jim Webb wrapped up a three day trip in Burma. It was the first trip by a U.S. senator to the military-ruled nation in more than a decade.

While there he met with the head of the country's military junta, as well as democracy activist Aung San Suu Kyi. He also secured the released of American citizen John Yettaw, who swam to Suu Kyi's compound, violating the terms of her house arrest. That move led to another 18-month sentence for the democracy activist.

At a press conference in Bangkok, Thailand, Senator Webb says he's hopeful that Suu Kyi will be released and participate in the country's elections next year.

He has also encouraged Burma's military junta to listen to the international community more.

[Jim Webb, U.S. Senator]:
"I try to give them a perspective of how the outside world views a lot of these issues which I don't think they are exposed to enough."

He says the United States stands ready to help Burma if it truly wants to move forward with free and fair elections.

[Jim Webb, U.S. Senator]:
"I am not trying to defend Myanmar, the Myanmar government, as to the perfection of their constitution. But, let's take opportunities when they arise and see what we can make out of them in order to assist the Burmese people.”

The United States has for years backed sanctions to persuade the generals to release political prisoners, but it's had little effect.