16-11-2023 (YANGON) Myanmar’s military junta reported facing “heavy assaults” by insurgents, prompting the issuance of emergency readiness orders to government staff. The junta spokesperson, Zaw Min Tun, revealed that the attacks were concentrated in Shan State, Kayah State, and Rakhine State. Evacuations of some military positions have taken place, and insurgents are reportedly employing drones to drop bombs on military posts, forcing urgent defensive measures.
The capital, Naypyitaw, has been instructed to form emergency response units, according to Tin Maung Swe, secretary of Naypyitaw Council. While he denied the order’s direct link to the security situation, pro-democracy factions, aligned with certain insurgent groups, have launched a “Road to Naypyitaw” campaign, aiming to take control of the capital.
Simultaneously, the military’s State Administration Council (SAC) has issued a directive calling on individuals with basic military training to be prepared for service, as reported by Khit Thit media. The authenticity of the document could not be independently verified by Reuters.
The turmoil in Myanmar, intensified by the 2021 coup that ousted the government led by Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, has led to a united front against the military. Pro-democracy activists and ethnic minority forces, fighting for self-determination, have coordinated their efforts, posing a significant challenge to the junta’s authority.
As clashes escalate, refugees have fled to neighboring countries, with thousands seeking refuge in India from recent fighting in Chin State. Western governments have responded by reimposing sanctions on the Myanmar junta and demanding the release of Aung San Suu Kyi and other pro-democracy figures.
While Southeast Asian nations have attempted to mediate peace talks, the military has largely disregarded these efforts. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over the expanding conflict in Myanmar, calling for the protection of civilians. The number of displaced people in Myanmar has now surpassed 2 million.
The Arakan Army (AA) rebel group, advocating for autonomy in Rakhine State, reported capturing police and military personnel, denouncing by the junta as “destroying” the region. Additionally, a video verified by Reuters showed wounded junta troops in Kayah State surrendering to insurgents offering medical assistance, signaling the intensification of hostilities.
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— NATO???????? VS KREMLIN???????? (@eduinfotech101) November 16, 2023
