Myanmar Junta's conflict with rebels displaces millions: UN
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict in Myanmar, revealing that the number of people displaced due to the ongoing fighting has reached a staggering two million.
The recent success of an alliance comprising three ethnic armed groups in Shan State, effectively pushing out the army and police from extensive border areas adjoining China, has emboldened other opposition factions across Myanmar.
In Kayah State, situated south of Shan State along the Thai border, ethnic Karenni insurgents- who already hold significant control over much of the state- are actively targeting the main town of Loikaw, having already seized the university on its outskirts.
Volunteer People's Defence Forces (PDFs), grassroots militias formed by local activists following the quelling of peaceful protests in 2021, have initiated their own offensives to capitalize on the military's setbacks in Shan State. Their aim is to maintain pressure on the ruling junta.
Although the PDFs possess less experience and inferior armaments compared to established ethnic armies, their capabilities are steadily improving. They frequently align themselves with more seasoned ethnic soldiers, who have been in conflict with the central government for decades.
In Sagaing, PDFs in various villages have been engaged in a strenuous battle against the military. Recently, they successfully seized the town of Kawlin and are now launching assaults on the strategically vital town of Tigyaing situated along the Irrawaddy River. PDF activities are notably prominent around Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city.
The junta has suffered significant territorial losses along the border with India. Ethnic Chin insurgents have established dominance in their own state and recently captured the border town of Rikhawdar.
Further to the south, the Arakan Army—a well-equipped ethnic insurgent group—has terminated its ceasefire and commenced attacks on army and police posts in the region.
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