WASHINGTON – The Bush administration imposed economic sanctions against more than a dozen senior officials of Myanmar on Thursday, condemning the military-run government’s crackdown on protesters. President Bush also urged China to use its influence in the region to find a peaceful end to the standoff.

“The world is watching the people of Burma take to the streets to demand their freedom, and the American people stand in solidarity with these brave individuals,” Bush said.

The action by Treasury will freeze any assets that the individuals targeted have in U.S. banks or other financial institutions under U.S. jurisdiction. The order also prohibits any U.S. citizens from doing business with the designated individuals. Among those targeted for the sanctions are the junta leader, Senior Gen. Than Shwe.