In recent news, Burma is facing violent clashes between the ruling military junta and armed ethnic groups in the north of the country, near the Chinese border. Tensions have intensified in recent days, with a coordinated attack by several armed groups that took control of strategic towns and roads.
Min Aung Hlaing, head of the Burmese junta, responded to these attacks by promising “counter-offensives” in a speech in Naypyidaw. He said the Myanmar military would respond to the attacks this week.
These fighting, of unprecedented intensity since the 2021 coup, are taking place in the Shan State region, which borders China’s Yunnan province. An alliance of three ethnic groups (the Taaung National Liberation Army, the Arakan Army and the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance) are claiming control of military positions, towns and roads leading to China.
China, Burma’s main trading partner, is worried about these fighting, especially since Shan State is home to a TGV project as part of the New Silk Roads policy. Beijing has called for an immediate ceasefire.
These clashes between the junta and armed ethnic groups highlight the persistent divisions within Burmese society and the desire of certain ethnic groups to fight for more political autonomy and control over their region’s natural resources. These armed groups, supported by certain groups of political opponents, have gained power since the 2021 coup.
It is difficult to assess the number of victims in these battles due to the remote and difficult to access area. The United Nations nevertheless reported the displacement of more than 6,000 people in the region.
The situation in Burma remains worrying, both politically and security-wise. Clashes between the junta and armed ethnic groups risk prolonging violence and instability in the country. All eyes are on the international community to find peaceful solutions and support the Burmese population in their quest for democracy and stability.