A place for discussing ALL things related to Myanmar (Burma).
#Myanmar (Burma)
woven ingot
Junta soldiers casually discussing killing:
Yesterday, I cam across an article written by Nan Lin, an opposition activist in hiding. It's a powerful piece that paints a picture of those continuing to resist under dire conditions.
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/03/19/opinion/myanmar-military-coup-resistance.html
daring birch
Question, is this a general post for Myanmar (ie: would Rohingya matters for instance fall here?) or merely about the Burmese struggle against the military junta?
woven ingot
Question, is this a general post for Myanmar (ie: would Rohingya matters for ins...
Oh yes, definitely Rohingya too. All things related. I updated the headliner accordingly.
daring birch
@woven ingot
woven ingot
I'm particularly interested in Chinese and Russian investments, and their arms deals — fueling the war.
harsh sigil
https://myanmar.iiss.org/ pretty good map
speaking of which, is there a more recent control map than this?
woven ingot
https://myanmar.iiss.org/ pretty good map
This is the first one I've seen. Can't wait to check it out.
woven ingot
@harsh sigil Although I wouldn't refer to it as a control map, it's definitely chalk full of info. Have you had a chance to look through ACLED's dashboard? It describes each even it identifies with a bit more detail: https://acleddata.com/dashboard/#/dashboard/B44FA45F2BF4CEC1D9678D7BB22622C7
harsh sigil
this is pretty useful, thanks
woven ingot
this is pretty useful, thanks
👍
Being a guerrilla conflict, a control map would be an extraordinary undertaking.
daring birch
speaking of which, is there a more recent control map than this?
Can you please provide a link to it? Looks like Wikimedia but it's a good habit to provide links with any image attached
harsh sigil
woven ingot
Can you please provide a link to it? Looks like Wikimedia but it's a good habit ...
The one above is the link.
daring birch
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Myanmar_civil_war_(2021%E2%80%93present)#/media/Fi...
Thanks! Interesting that there's contested territory close to Mandalay (second largest city) and Naypyidaw (the capital)
woven ingot
@daring birch Here's the original link to the Russian purchase of Myanmar munitions. Not sure where I saw Arty rounds, but nonetheless:
fierce cipher
https://myanmar.iiss.org/ pretty good map
am I right that this has not been updated after November 22?
harsh sigil
am I right that this has not been updated after November 22?
I believe so
woven ingot
@harsh sigil @harsh sigil After seeing the impressive work of the various Ukraine initiatives regarding control/event maps and unit designation/identifiers ...can't say I'd be lying if it hadn't piqued my interest to create a combo info.site for Burma. All the sources already have embed share features, so it'd be the last leg that would prove the most challenging.
harsh sigil
that'd be great, the coverage of the war has been terrible
woven ingot
"Understanding the People’s Defense Forces in Myanmar"
https://www.usip.org/publications/2022/11/understanding-peoples-defense-forces-myanmar
This piece was written 5 months back, but is full of insight regarding the resistance movement. Considering all the actors, it would prove an herculean effort to develop an order of battle covering the entire resistance. I have not located one as of yet.
daring birch
woven ingot
https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/russian-support-myanmar-junta-destabi...
This is terrible news, in every way. It could quickly turn into a proxy war, which we know would amp up the violence to no end. Particularly alarming is that the resistance is doing well outside of the cities —holding territory. America, being America, would be obliged to help arm the resistance. All told, bad news.
surreal pivot
Was the US actually doing anything significant to increase stability in Myanmar? My impression is that it was more of a "thoughts and prayers" approach...
woven ingot
Was the US actually doing anything significant to increase stability in Myanmar?...
As of now, my understanding is that too. A few delegations paid a visit to try and leverage ASEAN members against the ruling military to no avail. I seems people are paying more attention to the coup/war now that it's effecting neighboring states so much —displaced people, guerrilla movement across borders, etc.
woven ingot
"The United States is committed to supporting the people of Burma and will continue to take actions to deny the regime the resources it uses to commit these atrocities."
Yeah ...now. Convenient timing.
woven ingot
"These ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) are under the sway of China and three of them—the KIA, TNLA and MNDAA—based in northeast Myanmar’s Shan State are actively fighting the regime."
(Locations of China-backed ethnic armed groups in Myanmar)
woven ingot
"Anti-China sentiment in Myanmar remains high due to its closer ties to the regime and observers say that the Chinese ambassador met the junta’s home affairs minister to ensure the security of its investments in Myanmar. These include such megaprojects as a deep-sea port in Rakhine State’s Kyaukphyu in western Myanmar, the Letpadaung copper mine in Salingyi Township in central Myanmar, and oil and gas pipelines that run through Rakhine, Mandalay and Shan State."
woven ingot
"The military government enacted a new political party registration law in January that makes it difficult for opposition groups to mount a serious challenge to the army’s favored candidates. It sets conditions such as minimum levels of membership and candidates and offices that any party without the backing of the army and its cronies would find hard to meet, especially in the repressive political atmosphere.
The new law declared that existing political parties had to re-apply for registration with the election commission within 60 days — March 28 — and those that fail will be “automatically invalidated” and considered dissolved. It also says parties have to entrust their properties to the government if they are dissolved by their own choice or if their registrations are canceled under the law."
https://apnews.com/article/myanmar-suu-kyi-election-56e40c56ce6abcd21ba55e6f552efc7a
woven ingot
Twitter
woven ingot
"Since the February 1, 2021, military coup and the emergence of the Spring Revolution, a total of (3,225) people, including pro-democracy activists and other civilians, have been killed through military crackdowns against the pro-democracy movement."
woven ingot
Regarding the Rohingya, this passage speaks volumes about the political turmoil in Myanmar and the International Court's pressure on the regime and other state actors who turn to performing dog and pony tricks for the court:
"When the case first went to trial in December 2019, State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi controversially led Myanmar’s defence, arguing that any human rights violations were committed by rogue soldiers rather than part of a systematic military policy, despite a preponderance of evidence to the contrary. Her testimony stained her international reputation, and a little over a year later she was overthrown by the same generals she defended in court.
The February 2021 coup sparked a tussle for control over the case, with both the junta and the National Unity Government – a parallel cabinet appointed by elected lawmakers – claiming the right to represent Myanmar at the UN court. The ICJ eventually granted representation to the junta, which has since scrambled to collect evidence to refute The Gambia’s claims."
woven ingot
https://twitter.com/detresfa_/status/1641726697782530048?s=46&t=6Sn-YGNglfw_u6qQ...
In addition to this report, "...China has been vacillating between supporting the Tatmadaw and publicly communicating with the opposition, ostensibly to ensure that its economic and infrastructure interests in Myanmar remain intact regardless of which side wins.
Moreover, China seeks to prevent neighboring Myanmar from becoming a full-blown failed state and the possibility of a Western-backed government taking power, which may not as enthusiastically support China’s infrastructure projects such as the CMEC."
https://asiatimes.com/2023/04/china-spy-facility-speculation-swirls-over-cambodia-myanmar/
woven ingot
The Chatham House piece has really made the rounds, sparking new questions as to China's true ambition in the region, and potentially upon these small Burmese Islands. Some argue against it, while leaving room for further developments. This piece, by the Irrawaddy, is like a mini history lesson and current events update rolled into one:
"But there is no evidence to suggest that Chinese naval personnel are or ever were permanently based in Myanmar, or that China has some kind of military base there. The only thing that can be said with certainty is that the intrusions of China’s naval vessels, including submarines, have become increasingly common in the Indian Ocean, including the Bay of Bengal. It is also possible that Beijing may benefit from the intelligence information which is picked up by the Chinese-supplied radar systems on some of Myanmar’s naval bases, including the facilities on the Coco Islands. Those rumors have resurfaced after a website run by the London-based policy institute Chatham House published an article on 31 March about new construction on the islands."
woven ingot
At 500ft, a side by side comparison of little coco reveals little, a new helicopter landing pad and efforts to revegetate certain areas in neat little rows. It seems they also did this in 2016, though it's more pronounced in 2022. Aiming to do the same with big coco, but I'm unsure if my computer has it in her. These were 12 images each and took FOREVER to process. There are 101-ish images for each year, for big coco, so it may be a no.
woven ingot
Attached you'll find Big Coco at 2032 ft. They haven't been marked up yet, but I wanted to share them in case anyone wants to have a go at comparing the two themselves. Images are April 2022 and February 2016, respectively.
daring birch
woven ingot
Gift link: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/04/11/world/asia/myanmar-airstrike.html?...
Thank you.
woven ingot
Gift link: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/04/11/world/asia/myanmar-airstrike.html?...
That was a good read, thank you very much.
I wonder if the junta had the same capacity to project power by air —prior to the resistance movement?
I wonder if their airpower is limited to their military or if other government agencies have the ability to strike from the sky, independent of the army, and do/have they?
I've watched as the resistance started fighting back with air rifles, diy arms, captured weapons, and then all of a sudden —swoosh, everyone has a modern, newish, WESTERN weapon.
And increasingly, as the resistance continues to disarm the junta, they've come into possession of heavy weapons.
But they haven't acquired manpad air defense weapons. I wonder why?
daring birch
That was a good read, thank you very much.
I wonder if the junta had the same c...
Where have you seen that the rebels are getting Western weapons? Apologies if you shared above, I do read it but I don't get to remember everything 😅
woven ingot
Where have you seen that the rebels are getting Western weapons? Apologies if yo...
I have literally watched it change.
Probably hundred of hours of imagery.
daring birch
Alright, would be great if you could do a write up if you don't mind, because that would really be interesting
woven ingot
Alright, would be great if you could do a write up if you don't mind, because th...
That's a good idea.
daring birch
And the AA it's probably down to how much the Junta has, it's a military designed to oppress its people rather than invade or defend itself from an external aggressor
So I don't expect them to have many AA systems, although it would be good to double check
There's this list in Wikipedia, not very extensive with most being Chinese equipment or old Soviet stuff https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_equipment_of_the_Myanmar_Army
woven ingot
Attached you'll find Big Coco at 2032 ft. with places of interest highlighted in red. Images are April 2022 and February 2016, respectively. For a six year period, it doesn't seem like an inordinate amount of change, but what each of these changes represent, we know, is another story.
Of note, the new antenna southwest.
All said, we still know nothing about the current view, except what we've been told. I would love to get a hold of a current view, the same resolution (or higher). I want to see what all the fuss is about, if any?
halcyon forge
Gift link: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/04/11/world/asia/myanmar-airstrike.html?...
Is this video in any place in Social media ?
daring birch
Is this video in any place in Social media ?
I haven't seen it but I haven't searched for it either
woven ingot
Image 1: Big Coco, Google Earth Pro, April 2022, 2032ft.
Image 2: Big Coco, Sentinel Hub, April 10, 2023, 300m.
After looking through the available imagery, aside from a few new buildings, a causeway on the southern tip, and some new vehicle trials, there's not much to take in. All of this is based on the sensationalism of the Chatham house piece and the following pieces discussing the Cocos and Chinese electronic/signals infrastructure, and the threat they pose to the region —based from the Cocos. I don't know much, but sensationalism is hard to hide.
solemn wyvern
An SCMP article suggests that since "...Myanmar doesn't have the financial or technical capabilities...for military modernisation...", China may be involved in the construction of the island base, with the article showing images of "...telltale signs of military modernisation..." in a country as underdeveloped as Myanmar
woven ingot
Thanks for sharing that @solemn wyvern It's time to collect some real imagery, from both above and on the ground. The rhetoric, though, is something to behold.
"The images show that Myanmar’s islands have over the years experienced “a steady makeover, with telltale signs of military modernisation and facilities to support aircraft”, said the report titled “Is Myanmar building a spy base on Great Coco Island?”
—telltale signs of military modernisation and facilities to support aircraft
—a spy base
Even after accounting for the Post's editorial leanings, is the change shown truly steady and substantial?
"Troy Lee-Brown, a research fellow at the University of Western Australia Defence and Security Institute, said the images suggested “a fairly significant build-up in infrastructure development” on the archipelago from “what used to be a pretty rudimentary radar station”."
"A fairly significant build-up," we might even call sensationalist, when comparing changes on the ground over time, but if you have to write about something, and otherwise have nothing to show about it , then write about an obscure topic/subject island that no one has otherwise heard of, let alone seen from above, let alone scrutinized and visually studied to make sense of.
But some people do. And so, questions come to mind about the original buzz surrounding our subject island.
"Singh said China’s aim with the installations would likely be to monitor India’s army, navy and air force, including major missile testing sites."
I'm sorry, but "China’s aim with the installations would likely be to monitor India’s..." Saying it is one thing, but where's the connection, if any, to the imagery revealing such things, which is where this all started.
What do we glean from the overt changes on the ground, as seen from above, and if possible, what do we believe the overt changes indicate about all that can't be seen in and amongst new structures, expansions, engineering, installations, or otherwise evident bits of forensic details?
jolly imp
Rare tornado in Myanmar https://twitter.com/limmn2/status/1649701456709132289?s=46&t=LbhT7a8k6BPOqAMGyCYDaQ
woven ingot
Rare tornado in Myanmar https://twitter.com/limmn2/status/1649701456709132289?s=...
This is the last thing they need. What a sight!
exotic bronze
Not sure if you folks subscribe to the Burma Coup Resistance Notes substack but it an excellent source for the region..... A warning though, it is very graphic so keep that in mind before diving in.
Plenty of images of atrocities and the like for verification/geolocation/chronolocation.
woven ingot
Twitter
woven ingot
Not sure if you folks subscribe to the Burma Coup Resistance Notes substack but ...
Thank you.
woven ingot
https://twitter.com/_stella_cooper/status/1588538906219515904?s=46&t=6Sn-YGNglfw...
Thank you. This is a large report, but let's see what they found...
woven ingot
I wonder how much of this went on to inform Blinken's decision.
daring birch
woven ingot
ASEAN (5) point peace plan:
-
That all violence in Myanmar be halted immediately.
-
That parties concerned engage in constructive dialogue to seek a peaceful solution in the interests of the people.
-
That a special envoy of the ASEAN chair facilitate mediation of the dialogue process, with the assistance of the Secretary-General of ASEAN.
-
That ASEAN provide humanitarian assistance.
-
That the special envoy and delegation visit Myanmar to meet with all parties concerned.
oak glade
"As at 14 April 2023, the country had reported more than 34,400 casualties
and 18,300 incidents of political violence since the February 2021 coup. Of
the incidents of political violence, 4,200 involved violence against civilians,
and 7,100 involved explosions and remote violence, such as air strikes (ACLED
accessed 20/04/2023 a). Between February 2021 and January 2023, there were
at least 600 reported incidents of air strikes (ACLED accessed 20/04/2023 a; BBC
31/01/2023; IISS 15/11/2022). The air strikes and clashes have damaged schools,
medical facilities, sites of religious significance, civilians’ homes, and other
infrastructure."
woven ingot
Not sure why these fires aren't showing up on FIRMS, considering that entire villages are being torched. This 5 day spread shows heat to the township's north and west. Though no indications otherwise. Perhaps we'll get a hold of imagery from the aftermath to pinpoint the location.
daring birch
Not sure why these fires aren't showing up on FIRMS, considering that entire vil...
Clouds can clearly block the heat signals FIRMS picks up
woven ingot
Clouds can clearly block the heat signals FIRMS picks up
I ran it through various filters also, but nothing. Going to get a better chronology of events from this weekend to see what comes of the details.
FIRMS can be such a disappointment...
woven ingot
For the junta to part ways with money is actually quite a big deal.
"“The regime has tried to propitiate [the resistance] by making concessions bit by bit. It would not have made such a concession if it was stronger and had the upper hand,” he said."
https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-junta-offers-cash-rewards-to-resistance-defectors.html
woven ingot
Once again we see ASEAN's inability, or unwillingness to put real pressure on the junta, while still trying to remain a valid organization in the region otherwise. "As ASEAN leaders began their final day of talks in the fishing town of Labuan Bajo, Indonesian President Joko Widodo admitted they had made “no significant progress” on implementing the peace plan."
daring birch
It really looks like ASEAN just wants business as usual with Myanmar rather than pressuring the Junta
Sadly not very surprising considering ASEAN countries aren't the most democratic either
woven ingot
Sadly not very surprising considering ASEAN countries aren't the most democratic...
You would think the lack of democracy would be buttressed by an abundance of business opportunities that are lost to the entire region. Constructive capital can be a democratizing influence.
daring birch
You would think the lack of democracy would be buttressed by an abundance of bus...
But not always as we have seen in Russia or China
woven ingot
Then losing power and being held accountable, in its simplest form, is what drives these power hungry butchers to kill their own people. They are, in fact, terrified of losing.
daring birch
Dictators and autocrats are insecure individuals under a mask of strength and violence towards those who oppose them. That's why any crack in a regime is potentially so threatening
woven ingot
Is ASEAN going from incapable to indifferent?
https://twitter.com/DrSasa22222/status/1657048631558701057?s=20
woven ingot
Federalism Rises from the Grass Roots
"Historically, successive military regimes in Myanmar have relied on local administrators and police to oppress local communities and to identify and eliminate any threats to military control. The resistance, therefore, has made a priority of action at the grassroots level, seeking to:
Prevent the junta from establishing control over local administrative structures;
Dislodge military-aligned local administrators and police departments; and
Establish local administrative structures that are supportive of the resistance movement."
"...the emerging local governance structures tie directly to the stated national objectives of the resistance to create a democratic, federal system governed by law."
https://www.usip.org/publications/2023/05/amid-fight-myanmar-federalism-rises-grass-roots
woven ingot
It's absolutely fascinating, just how seemingly dependent the NUG is on ASEAN for a resolution, as if ASEAN were something other than the body of the hydra they are currently battling, the junta that is.
https://twitter.com/DrSasa22222/status/1657377588493578246?s=20
daring birch
Twitter
woven ingot
https://twitter.com/cnnbrk/status/1657655143570063362
"As of Sunday afternoon, the full extent of the devastation caused by the storm in the state capital and nearby areas was not yet clear. The eye of the storm crossed Sittwe and nearby areas on Sunday afternoon and meteorologists warned of possible further severe weather, which normally follows the crossing of the eye. Myanmar’s Meteorology and Hydrology Department said the cyclone was moving into the country’s north and northeast, where it threatens to do more damage in neighboring Chin State and Magwe and Sagaging regions—strongholds of Myanmar’s anti-regime resistance that have already been devastated by the scorched earth policy implemented by the Myanmar military regime since the 2021 coup. The Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System estimated the storm could affect up to 2 million people."
https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/cyclone-mocha-wreaks-havoc-in-myanmars-northern-rakhine.html
daring birch
2M seems very few to me
woven ingot
CIA says the nation is "57,970,293 (2023 est.)," and considering most humans live on the coast, in general, I totally agree. Someone's maths are misguided.
daring birch
To be fair most people in Myanmar live in the southern coast and along the Irrawaddy river valley, but still 2M are just too few for the western coast
Not to say that Bangladesh is also being affected which is one of the most densely populated countries in the world
daring birch
Quite outdated (2010) but it does show where people mainly live
woven ingot
Quite outdated (2010) but it does show where people mainly live
Come one. That's not that old for a nationwide headcount. But yes...
woven ingot
"So far, there has been no successful diplomatic initiative since the coup in Myanmar 2021. The international community is struggling to formulate a common position and seriously address the crisis. ASEAN, too, has failed with its five-point consensus. Myanmar in a Podshell discusses with the diplomats Charles Petrie and Scot Marciel the possibilities and limits of diplomacy in Myanmar."
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/myanmar-in-a-podshell/id1667150296?i=1000612450923
woven ingot
"Maung Sein lost his 27-year-old wife, who was five months pregnant, his four-year-old child, and his mother- and brother-in-law when Cyclone Mocha made landfall on Sunday in Sittwe, Rakhine State, destroying 90 percent of homes in the state capital."
woven ingot
"The military has imported at least $1 billion USD worth of equipment since the 2021 coup, according to a report released on May 17 by Tom Andrews, the U.N. Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar. “Despite overwhelming evidence of the Myanmar military’s atrocity crimes against the people of Myanmar, the generals continue to have access to advanced weapons systems, spare parts for fighter jets, raw materials and manufacturing equipment for domestic weapons production,” he said. China has supplied $260 million USD worth of arms to the military. Russia has supplied $400 million USD in attack helicopters, fighter jets, and machine guns, which were identified as being used in the airstrike on Pa Zyi Gyi village of Sagaing Region on April 11. The airstrike killed 168 people, including children.
At least $250 million USD worth of military supplies were shipped from entities in Singapore from February 2021 to December 2022. Its banks have been used by arms dealers. At least 138 Singaporean firms have served as intermediaries for the Burma Army. State-owned entities in China, Russia, and to a lesser extent India, were involved in transferring military equipment to Burma. Andrews called on the international community to impose sanctions on the Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise, which is a source of revenue for the military, and pointed out that no sanctions have targeted the Myanma Foreign Trade Bank (MFTB). “My findings demonstrate that MFTB is not only important for receiving foreign currency but is also being used extensively by the junta to purchase arms. It should be a prime target for international sanctions,” added Andrews."
Now, we have a better lead on those responsible for propping up the junta. Let's see what the web says about them, the connections, the players, etc. But first, to find a detailed and accurate list of the junta's current leadership...
https://english.dvb.no/at-least-one-billion-dollars-in-weapons-imported-since-2021-coup/
woven ingot
UN Expert Exposes $1 billion “Death Trade” to Myanmar Military
"Andrews recalled that the Government of Singapore has stated that its policy is to, “prohibit the transfer of arms to Myanmar” and that it has decided “not to authorise the transfer of dual-use items which have been assessed to have potential military application to Myanmar.”"
woven ingot
Before and after Cyclone Mocha: Sittwe Coast, 20230508 - 20230518, respectively.
Before and after Cyclone Mocha: Sittwe Airport, 20230508 - 20230518, respectively.
woven ingot
"While the combined forces of the EAOs and PDFs prepare for battle, people in the liberated areas of Chin, Kachin, Karen, and Karenni states have begun the process of creating local and state governments of their own design. Local committees, consisting of commanders of the EAO or PDF units and representatives of the towns and villages, are forming new government structures that suit the community’s culture and priorities. A ground-up, organic democratization process is underway across many parts of Myanmar’s ethnic states."
Is this real democracy in action, grassroots democracy born of unity and blood, and if so, can it last?
woven ingot
The junta is desperate to root out the PDF, apparently resorting to bribe schemes in various locations.
So, "10 political prisoners, including 1 political prisoner sentenced to death in Taung Ngu Prison, kicked the prison door with their feet and ran away with guns, 9 of them reached the liberated area."
"Since the February 1, 2021 coup and the emergence of the Spring Revolution, a total of (3,520) people, including pro-democracy activists and civilians have been killed through military crackdowns against the pro-democracy movement."
woven ingot
"About 80 Percent of Pauktaw City was Destroyed by the Mocha Storm"
https://www.rfa.org/burmese/news/pauk-taw-rakhine-storm-damage-05182023054508.html
Pauktaw: 230508/230518, aftermath of cyclone Mocha
woven ingot
"ASEAN's first emergency response aid to Myanmar following Cyclone Mocha will be delivered on Sunday (May 21) by commercial aircraft, according to Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The ministry, in a statement, explained that the aid has been prepared and is in the warehouses of the Disaster Emergency Logistics System for ASEAN in Subang, Malaysia; and Chainat, Thailand.
"The next aid will be sent on May 22 or May 23 using military aircraft from Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand," said the ministry."
woven ingot
"In Hiroshima, where the G7 meeting is being held in Japan, Burmese expatriates led a march and protest on May 21 calling for effective action against the terrorist military group."
woven ingot
Myanmar: Campaign of Terror | Bird’s Eye View
"A ‘campaign of terror’ is how human rights groups are describing what’s happening in central Myanmar. In the Buddhist heartland, there are recurring reports of villages torched, people killed, homes destroyed and food sources charred. A scene that has played out since the military coup in 2021 that ousted the National League for Democracy party and its leader, Aung San Suu Kyi. But in recent months, the rate of burning has increased at an alarming rate.
In the first of this digital exclusive investigations series by Al Jazeera, Bird’s Eye View, our team uses open source intelligence to find out what’s really happening on the ground."
woven ingot
It can be said that Myanmar has entered a new phase of armed conflict, full scale civil war.
When the protests in the streets turned to an armed struggle against the junta, both the resistance and the junta aligned themselves with likeminded people amongst the population, each seeking a certain measure of support.
This —logically— fed the popular resistance against the junta, which continues to be the case.
The junta, in its own right aligned itself with the portion of population that supports their interests, arming allied civilians and militias with weapons and equipment.
In the powder-keg of what now can only be described as civil war —no one is safe, and more and more, the people's dilemma emerged from this savagery, having to decide where one's interests lie and picking a side, or fleeing, is all that remains.
And now, all the above are armed an fighting, daily, across the country. No more hit and runs —full out combat in order to seize territory and expand the already sizable NUG controlled territory.
Myanmar is in a civil war.
woven ingot
Twitter
cobalt current
I don't understand why Modi and his government are so lax with the tatmadaw. But I guess Democracy is not priority for him.
woven ingot
I don't understand why Modi and his government are so lax with the tatmadaw. But...
Arms sales...
woven ingot
woven ingot
https://data.unhcr.org/en/search?sv_id=0&geo_id=591&type%5B0%5D=document§or_...
The article above piqued my interest on exactly where Rohingya refugees are sheltering, and then I thought ...how daunting to consider the 1100 test pilot participants against the backdrop of a towering 960,128 refugees.
woven ingot
Where have you seen that the rebels are getting Western weapons? Apologies if yo...
Public media is starting to catch up with the realities on the ground.
"...a wide range of more modern, smaller caliber 5.56mm guns is now also in resistance hands including US-manufactured M-4 carbines and M-16s, some apparently new, and German-designed HK-33 rifles once produced under license in Thailand."
https://asiatimes.com/2023/05/myanmar-pdfs-getting-the-guns-to-turn-the-war/
woven ingot
"Since the coup, the National Unity Government has established more than 300 People Defense Force (PDF) battalions and columns across the country. In addition to this, community-based people’s security forces have been created more than 250 townships."
woven ingot
Myanmar (Burma)
woven ingot
On June 1, 2023, we will be posting a "living" spreadsheet:
"Myanmar Civil War Known Anti-Junta Forces 2021-Pres."
The anti-junta conflict in Myanmar involves the People Defense Forces (PDF), Local PDFs (LPDF), Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAO), and others. The goal of the data is to identify ALL anti-junta forces, with the hopes of generating an accurate order of battle.
As of now, there is no indication that such a database exists in the public sphere, so we hope it serves a useful good in accurately keeping up with the situation on the ground.
To date, we have identified (+/- 207) individual units out of a suspected (550), as we continue working to that end.
woven ingot
On June 1, 2023, we will be posting a "living" spreadsheet:
"Myanmar Civil War ...
By far, the best unit name yet: "Myinmu - Lightning Guerrilla Force - A Group of Horse Lightning Guerillas"
woven ingot
People Defense Force
I tried every which way to translate this, to no avail, but what an image! Revolutionary art is some of the very best Information Operation (IO) imagery there is.
woven ingot
People Defense Force
I tried every which way to translate this, to no avail, bu...
Symbolism: Notice the enduring use of the revolutionary "AK-47/AK" platform —now— as a peer to the western "M-16/AR" platform.
Also, notice the long blade, which may indicate: "by any means necessary," symbolically speaking.
cobalt current
People Defense Force
I tried every which way to translate this, to no avail, bu...
I roughly transcribed it (man all the diacrits are a pain) and I got something like this: က်ေဆစ် စစ်တပ် အမြစ်ဖြတ် which google translates to "Cut the roots of the Kasid army"
No mystery as to where the artist got their inspiration. It's a classic Maoist throwback.
Alternatively, "Eliminate the Persian army," maybe it's using some kind of derogatory slang?
woven ingot
Wow, very interesting!
Thank you for that. There is definitely a pervasive use of white star/red backdrop symbology throughout the NUG, amongst others.
A hint to direct CCP influence? If so, how odd against the western influence.
woven ingot
Alternatively, "Eliminate the Persian army," maybe it's using some kind of derog...
How did you go about doing that, if you don't mind me asking? Translating, that is...
woven ingot
On June 1, 2023, we will be posting a "living" spreadsheet:
"Myanmar Civil War ...
...and growing!
cobalt current
How did you go about doing that, if you don't mind me asking? Translating, that ...
Heh, I did it in about the dumbest way possible. I just cross referenced the line with a standard browser font and individually transcribed the characters. Which didn’t actually take very long, it only had 12 characters. . . Still it’s possible I mixed up something and that’s why it translated weird.
woven ingot
Heh, I did it in about the dumbest way possible. I just cross referenced the lin...
Nice!
woven ingot
"Today, on May 28, the terrorist army attacked Chinyaw, rain break village White Moe Village seek luck hill village Banyan tree villages were destroyed by fire. 65 houses in Chinh village were destroyed by the army. It is reported that 32 houses were destroyed by fire in the village of Nyaung Mhu Pin.
On May 27, the terrorist army attacked Zongtao village. Land end village Reya village Okini village Nang U Village They attacked and burned the villages where the dam was located. 132 houses were destroyed in the village of Reya by the army. 26 residential houses and 1 rural dispensary in Okuni village. It was reported that 18 houses in the village where the dam is located and 13 houses in the village of Zumdan were burnt down.
On the 26th of May boat cutting village Okini village, The far east of Khaengon village, elephant village They said that the villages of Pauku were burned down. Due to the burning of 4 houses and 1 rice field in Mifuhara village by the terrorist army. 25 houses in Sinte village;
8 houses in Khyengone village; 54 houses were destroyed in the fire in Boat Cut Village. Local residents told the Yangon New Age News Agency that the state of damage to the rest of the villages is not yet known.
In addition, on May 26, Miphura village was hit by a weapon fired by the military council, killing 2 children and 1 woman, and 1 resident of Mae Gone village was also hit by a bullet. On May 28, at 8:53 a.m., members of the terrorist military council and Pyu Sawh who were stationed overnight in Thantaw village opened fire on the area where around 200 soldiers were fleeing between Kuni village and Rayya village. It was reported from the local people that they shot 2 men and took the women and other women hostage at gunpoint."
woven ingot
...and growing!
woven ingot
woven ingot
https://twitter.com/shafiur/status/1662814084486537221
This is bad news. Recent attempt by regional administrators to encourage the Rohingya to return "home," is another example of the sense of urgency that local administrators have. The Rohingya are terrified to return to Myanmar. Rightfully so. The camps where "they" intend to house the people, creates the very environment that pits people against themselves and others. In the Rohingya's case, they will find themselves at the very lowest of the social economic stratum, let alone subject to the social political racism —driving their plight. It's important to keep up with this development. I see a tragedy unfolding that leaves the Rohingya, once again, outside the national identity.
woven ingot
Current understanding of People Defense Force (PDF) unit formations, as described by "Ye Myo Hein [...] a visiting scholar at the U.S. Institute of Peace and a global fellow at the Wilson Center" in the piece, "Understanding the People’s Defense Forces in Myanmar:"
https://www.usip.org/publications/2022/11/understanding-peoples-defense-forces-myanmar
woven ingot
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_NEPW8H4lBk
"It is the second time in less than three months a Myanmar delegation has visited Cox's Bazar.
Bangladesh and Myanmar have launched a pilot project to repatriate more than 1,000 Rohingya refugees.
daring birch
Not liking that at all
woven ingot
Not liking that at all
I mean, 1,000 refugees, come on! If there's already this much backlash from the pilot program, I can't wait to see how the authorities expect to repatriate close to a million Rohingya. I have a feeling it's going to be quite bitter, whatever "they" decide.
daring birch
Any refugee they would like to repatriate is definitely concerning considering the probable fate that awaits them
woven ingot
Here we have the beginning of the "Myanmar Civil War Known Anti-Junta Forces 2021-Pres."
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/10xPWZIdk0esJ5c6VWFx-mPfYKZZ-y8zOdsqtFsOT7W8/edit?usp=sharing
Over the next several months, the intent is to populate the spreadsheet with increasingly accurate and timely information. Given the huge task of identifying such units across the nation, searching through social media, news, and other sources, we have our work cut out for us.
The situation in Myanmar is ever changing and the actors on the battle field all the more. From a coup to an uprising, to a civil war, with alliances and loyalties changing all the time, information is extremely difficult to attain to come by, but on we search.
Contributing sources, outside of social media and news updates, used to populate the initial spreadsheet:
https://themimu.info/
https://www.usip.org/publications/2022/11/understanding-peoples-defense-forces-myanmar
https://www.csis.org/analysis/time-difficult-choices-myanmar
https://www.rfa.org/burmese/interview/interview-with-u-ye-mon-04182022173008.html
https://encyclopediageopolitica.com/2023/02/01/still-fracturing-myanmars-forgotten-war/
daring birch
Why was the clip deleted?
woven ingot
I read into it, and thought Thailand.
daring birch
Nah, it's a mountainous location at the West of the country
woven ingot
I failed on that one.
daring birch
Trying to geolocate it but the video doesn't offer much hints and the satellite imagery is bad
So it's a tough one
I'm reposting the clip, I think it's relevant if it's verified https://vxtwitter.com/thechinjournal/status/1663978133752610816
woven ingot
Okay. I'm on it too then. Looking for the police station now.
daring birch
Yeah, me too, it's not labeled on a first instance, so it's a tough one
woven ingot
What a beutiful town...
Some context: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/myanmars-chin-ethnic-armed-force-takes-over-thantlang-police-station/
daring birch
I'm finding that Thatlang has been the center of confrontation since the Junta took the power back and has been switching hands all these years
This is a strike for a year ago, the fire is allegedly near where one of the bombs are claimed to have fallen in the clip you found https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L7pKIyct78k
(at the opening clip)
Need a Burmese speaker, I think they would help quite a bit with this 😅
Gonna ask in PO
woven ingot
I'm fixed on this area. The police station must be tiny, tiny, tiny!
daring birch
Google maps image is from 2023 but I don't see trenches like the one they record the video from
EO Sentinel has an image from the 28th but it's too low resolution 😦
woven ingot
The amount of newly dug trenches is overwhelming. All around junta assets.
woven ingot
Figure 6: Geolocated footage of a drone attack on a SAC base and police station in Thantlang [22.702645, 93.426122].
woven ingot
A new socio-political forum is underway in the Sagaing region. While it certainly serves as path to equitable governance, it's Buddhist Bamar majority pits it against the many socio-political options on the table —around the ethnically diverse nation. In this article, of note, is the NUG's overall leadership in the greater struggle, which it seems is being supported by the forum.
"Amid the current chaotic circumstances, the emergence of the Sagaing Forum brings a ray of hope. It represents a fresh and bottom-up approach to addressing the challenges faced by the region. Instead of relying on conventional methods, the Forum aims to foster collaboration, dialogue, and inclusive decision-making processes. Its ultimate objective is to establish a federal unit, advocating the NUG, CRPH and CRSH to be inclusive and responsive, steering away from divisive approaches. The Forum’s efforts are essential in creating a positive path forward for Sagaing, offering a glimpse of optimism amidst the prevailing challenges.
Among political approaches, the Sagaing Forum could stand out as a zero-to-one innovation in a Buddhist Bamar-dominated region. It signifies a departure from the conventional top-down models and embraces a bottom-up perspective, emphasizing the voices and needs of the local communities. By doing so, the Forum recognizes the importance of empowering those directly affected by the crisis and involving them in shaping their own future."
woven ingot
Cross post from: #asia-pacific message
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S33l7nJHE2o rest in peace and strength in rehabilitation🕯️ 🙏
woven ingot
"“This is the last time we will fight against a military coup,” he says. “If we don’t fight, we will not see what we want our country to be. This is our big chance, one that we have never had before. We must fight.”"
woven ingot
And so the Russian MOD, in its desperation to regenerate fighting equipment, sources the tools of war from backchannel negotiations with arms-trade-friendly neighbors. Perhaps they will begin to buy back critical air assets next, which is terrible news for the war in Ukraine, but great news for Myanmar's anti-junta forces, who are poised to smash the regime, should they lose dominion of the sky.
"Russia, which previously relied on Western technology to produce optical equipment, according to past trade data, appears to be struggling to procure the necessary components as a result of the trade sanctions.
Nikkei asked UralVagonZavod, the Russian government and the Defense Ministry of Myanmar's military regime to provide details on the Russian company's repurchase of military products, but received no replies as of publication."
daring birch
woven ingot
https://apnews.com/article/rohingya-investigation-missing-boat-refugees-banglade...
“Governments ignore the Rohingya because they can. While multiple international laws mandate the rescue of vessels in distress, enforcement is difficult.”
woven ingot
https://apnews.com/article/rohingya-investigation-missing-boat-refugees-banglade...
What a sobering read this morning. I can't wrap my head around such desperation. Risking death to avoid persecution speaks volumes about the savages that torment these people. With all the warnings sent to maritime services in the area, it's a hard pill to swallow that fellow Muslims in the region wouldn't come to their aid. I suppose that's easy to say from here. I'm left wondering, though, could Indonesia absorb close to a million refugees, and put and end to this persecution once and for all? Between the bureaucracy and the religion, and the magnitude of human loss, I'm left with a bitter taste for "others" in the region. Thank you for sharing this.
woven ingot
“An Israeli arms producer has provided Myanmar with equipment to manufacture arms despite the genocide being conducted against the Rohingya people in the country and the arms embargo imposed by the United States and European Union on Myanmar.”
woven ingot
As genocidal as the Israelis are, I'm not surprised, but (Serious Question), as I sit here I ask myself, is there any legal recourse, international or otherwise, to hold those involved accountable, even if symbolically? I'm so tired of tweeting my opinions, which does nothing. I hope Haaretz gains traction on this. One more scoundrel to keep an eye on. Thank you, Chris.
woven ingot
"“...local authorities” work for a military which was found by the US government to have committed genocide against the Rohingya. A subsequent report by the Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK found that the military engaged in only “minimal efforts” to evacuate those confined in the camps, failed to provide safety messaging in their language, and did not give them permission to leave on their own."
woven ingot
Twitter
woven ingot
https://twitter.com/trbrtc/status/1668656456743235591
It's amazing how you come across such interesting reads. Diving in on this later this evening!👍
woven ingot
I read through piece. I can't say that I'm willing to rule one way or another. The exact figures are what's being disputed in the piece for goodness sake, so yeah, people are going to disagree.
These are figures that will remain shrouded in mystery. I'm glad that others are working to determine the true numbers.
For my part, I think the piece does a great job addressing the socio-political shift, from organized resistance against the junta, to a full scale civil war, like we discussed last month.
#1087357245400035350 message
The study, in its own defense, tells us that:
"The huge advantage to its dataset is that the AAPP undertakes local investigations to try to verify individual deaths. It claims to have verified 92% of its reported killings for the period covered by this study. The AAPP dataset is thus more reliable than that of the TCMS, which is solely based on media reports. However, the AAPP includes deaths caused by only one side in the conflict.
To overcome the selection bias of the TCMS data, and the AAPP’s conscious choice to register only the deaths caused by the military and allied forces, we incorporated into our study the USDP’s list of killed party members and supporters. This list includes neither deaths caused by the military or its associates nor other civilian deaths not associated with the USDP. We compared data for the entire 20-month period of the study from the TCMS, AAPP, and USDP. Unsurprisingly, only one death was included in both the AAPP and USDP datasets. These two lists are almost mutually exclusive. Combining both with the TCMS data thus reduces the selection bias of the TCMS dataset, which aims to include killings committed by both sides in the conflict."
That there's opposing views on the figures, and that disagreement lies largely on who to include in the total, pro-junta, anti-junta, and neutral civilians, etc., is in itself telling of the civil war now raging, where sides (friend or foe) are drawn across the entirety of society. The killing of "marked" collaborators by the anti-junta forces will continue so long as there are civilians working with and for the SAC.
hasty jewel
As genocidal as the Israelis are, I'm not surprised, but (Serious Question), as ...
this is a russia-linked arms developper company founded in 2004 operating under an Israeli license, not any of the main Israeli arm developpers.
afaik, this is a breach of Israel's own laws since they sent a memo to everyone in its military industrial complex to not sell anything to Myanmar anymore when news of a genocide was occuring. Don't quote me on this
Of course, if this is true, you still need an authorization by the department of defense, which makes this a criminal act.
CAA Industries is rather new to me, I've never heard that name before it appeared in Haaretz in that article.
Heres their page:
I've yet to see any of their products used by the IDF either.
The company, per its website, is the official Israeli representative of the Russian national arms conglomerate Rostec, which has faced American sanctions since the Russian annexation of Crimea in 2014, and is licensed to produce assault rifles based on the Kalashnikov AK series.
woven ingot
this is a russia-linked arms developper company founded in 2004 operating under ...
I'm curious...
—who hands out the licenses?
—what specific laws were breached?
—where can we read the "everyone" memo?
—who is "they," and are memos considered law, or was it preceded by legislation?
—"...not sell anything." Does the "anything" list come in an excel spreadsheet?
—"...when news of a genocide was occurring." When news of a genocide (wasn't occurring) was it okay to carry on trading?
—"authorization by the department of defense" The DoD, as in the USA, or the Israeli MoD?
—What does "authorization" authorize one to do, and under what authority?
hasty jewel
I'll have to find out the FoI request for the specifics on the first point, https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-investigating-freedom-of-information-laws/, but its how we know in the first place the procedure to become an Israeli arms maker from abroad. There were dozens of UK companies who applied for example between 2010-2015
https://caat.org.uk/challenges/arms-companies/
CAAT lists over 40 of them
I reposted the blurb on it being a Rostec shell from the Haaretz article on the subject.
Hence why it claimed to have stopped arms sales to Myanmar in 2018 when news of a genocide using Israeli tavors came to light
https://www.timesofisrael.com/amid-uproar-israel-halts-arms-sales-to-myanmar-report/
Theres more information in this article pertaining to Israel's history related to Myanmar and how it operates with other regimes, but generally, the Israelis operate under the same kind of carelessness that we associate with the French arms industry in who it sells.
I'd love to find the quote I have memorized from that one general that goes something along the likes of "we'll trade with both angels and devils"
Generally though, this arms export limiting is assumed to still be in effect and Eitay Mack has doubted the veracity of theses reports , but this one particular instance appears to be russian affiliated.
@woven ingot
exotic bronze
A very good podcast episode on the background and future issues in what is a seriously under-reported conflict.
https://shows.acast.com/hold-your-fire/episodes/myanmars-forgotten-war
woven ingot
A very good podcast episode on the background and future issues in what is a ser...
I'll have a go now. Thank you.
woven ingot
The timing of this podcast is priceless. Greatly appreciated @exotic bronze
I'm happy to find the last three months of information shared, within this thread, soundly presented in their discussion, and then some to my delight. I annotated all the new leads I needed to chase down. So far, the trail leads to Myanmar being used as a defense products logistics hub for the resupply of Russia. That the specifics revolve around ships and planes makes the scheme an ideal candidate for open-source research. I'm planning a visual narrative now.
At some point I found myself questioning my own understanding of the —in country— sequence of events, only to find myself experiencing how much the timing of information awareness effects that being studied and its action, and likewise, that doing the studying.
Kudos to Richard Horsey for his breadth of knowledge. He helped to corroborate the various estimates of civilians killed since the coup, leaving it at "several thousand." Furthermore, I'm glad that others are seeing the conflict as a civil war. It really helps to see it that way when attempting to identify the stakeholders across the spectrum.
Horsey mentions the August elections offered up by the junta, and soundly rejected by the resistance. For my take, elections will be the largest public display of the conflict's impact on the civilian population —to date. The elections will be used to further redefined people as junta-tolerant and anti-junta. I'm afraid for those who show up to vote, and for those working the poling stations. Instead of speculating on the violence, I think it's best to see how they play out in the long run.
I don't think Horsey gives enough credit to organic anti-junta forces, who die by the hundreds in a unified effort to uphold the democracy they believe in. Whereas others fight for different purposes, we shouldn't forget that this stated when democracy was given to the people and then taken away —after they voted.
woven ingot
"“It is crucial that India’s allies step up and start using their leverage to stop India’s support for the junta,” Yadanar Maung said. “We urge President Biden, his government and members of Congress to push Prime Minister Modi to immediately stop all shipments of arms and dual use goods and technology to the Myanmar junta. The US should start imposing conditions on US military aid to India to help end Indian support for the junta.”"
"On Thursday, the US treasury department announced new sanctions against the Myanmar junta’s defence ministry as well as two regime-controlled banks–the Myanma Foreign Trade Bank and Myanma Investment and Commercial Bank."
woven ingot
"Myanma Foreign Trade Bank (MFTB) and Myanma Investment and Commercial Bank (MICB) are state-owned financial institutions in Burma that primarily function as foreign currency exchanges and enable the conversion of kyat to U.S. dollars and euros and the reverse. This conversion allows Burma’s revenue-generating state-owned enterprises, including Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise (MOGE), access to international markets using offshore accounts and to transact more easily with foreign entities. While MFTB and MICB allow MOGE and other state-owned enterprises access to foreign markets for revenue generation, these financial institutions also enable Burma’s Ministry of Defense and other sanctioned military entities to purchase arms and other materials from foreign sources."
woven ingot
Burma: Swedish weapons continue to kill people
"Since the 1990s, there has been an arms embargo from the EU against Myanmar, which Sweden is legally bound by. As a member of the EU, prohibits the EU arms embargo Sweden from selling or transferring weapons and dual-use products and technology to Burma's military junta."
"Saab has not responded to questions about whether the transferred fuses would require a Saab license to be manufactured, and whether Saab's license production agreement with Indian companies prohibits or restricts re-exports from India to other countries. It is unclear whether Sandeep Metalcraft has the opportunity to manufacture the fuses in India without licensed parts and support from the Saab Group."
"India has continued to export military equipment, including 122 mm barrels for howitzers, to the Myanmar military as late as October 2022. The manufacturer of these barrels is Yantra India Limited, a state-owned public sector company affiliated with the Indian Ministry of Defence. Yantra India Limited's ammunition factory at Ambajhari currently manufactures 84 mm Carl Gustaf ammunition."
"India accounts for 80 percent of arms exports to Burma according to the latest figures from 2021."
https://globalbar.se/2023/06/burma-svenska-vapen-fortsatter-doda-manniskor/
woven ingot
The NUG seems to have a knack for acquiring weapons:
"Captured in these photos are the remarkable strides taken by @NUGMyanmar
in empowering the PDF Forces. With every passing day, their experiences grow, their weapons evolve, and their unwavering resolve strengthens.The fascist military will be justly defeated by the people.''
https://twitter.com/MahnWinnKhine/status/1672944240077467648?s=20
spring flume
Hey, just wanted to give those interested in Myanmar a heads up about our July book club book: https://discord.com/channels/709752884257882135/1112333593486827601
woven ingot
Myanmar Insein: A rare glimpse inside a barbaric prison
"They took him to a morgue and showed him all the decomposing bodies there, telling him 'your life is now worthless. We can kill you for less than the cost of a bag of charcoal'. He had a gunshot wound in his leg because he had been shot when he was arrested. They had rolled iron rods on his shins, he had a large swelling on the back of his head, a dislocated arm and a dislodged disc in his spine. His memory was no longer good - even now he still cannot remember people's names."
Junta Condemns Indo-US Statement on Deteriorating Situation in Myanmar
"They met at the White House on June 22 and a joint statement expressed deep concern about Myanmar and called for the release of all political prisoners, the establishment of constructive dialogue and a transition to an inclusive, federal democratic system.
Despite the statement, India is one of the few foreign governments maintaining relations with the regime."
woven ingot
woven ingot
Rohingya Women Fight to be Heard
"In a country that doesn't want you. In a community that oppresses you. In a camp where abductions are commonplace.
They are stateless, forbidden to work. They do not attend regular schools and may only leave the camp with special permission. Frustration, unaddressed trauma and the steadily increasing threat from militant groups are making the situation of Rohingya women in refugee camps in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, almost unbearable. In contrast to the men, they have few opportunities. Getting an education, moving around the camp and even going to the toilets pose a safety risk."
woven ingot
"Myanmar junta troops torched 70,324 civilian houses in the 25 months from the start of May 2021 through the end of May 2023 in 13 out of the country’s 14 states and regions."
https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/over-70000-houses-burned-down-by-junta-since-2021.html
woven ingot
Myanmar: The Chin Against the Junta
"Since the military coup in Myanmar in February 2021, the Chin have taken up arms to defend their territory, their identity and their ideals against the all-powerful junta."
woven ingot
The Military is Killing Civilians
woven ingot
Image 1: Big Coco, Google Earth Pro, April 2022, 2032ft.
Image 2: Big Coco, Sen...
UPDATE: It seems Google Earth Pro has something to hide. Why the sudden changes on the mysterious Island? Why are specific areas overlayed with old imagery?
harsh sigil
UPDATE: It seems Google Earth Pro has something to hide. Why the sudden changes ...
Is it possible that there was some nefarious user reporting involved?
I know that you can ask for an update in imagery, could it have been done in reverse?
woven ingot
Is it possible that there was some nefarious user reporting involved?
Hmm... I'm not familiar with Google's administrative processes, but it's widely known that governments can ask them to mask sensitive locations, and they largely respond in kind. I hope it's just a glitch, considering how blatantly obvious the locations are, which can be checked against other sources of imagery. I hope we learn more.
woven ingot
Myanmar, Drugs, Trafficking
"Among the consequences of the economic slowdown in the country has been a shift to the cultivation of poppy, a key ingredient in the production of heroin. “In 2022, the area under opium poppy cultivation in Myanmar was estimated at 40,100 (29,000 to 62,900) hectares. This estimate is 33 percent greater, or about 10,000 more hectares than in 2021, reversing the downward trend that started in 2014. The evidence collected in 2022 points towards increasing sophistication in poppy cultivation practices,” the UNODC report said.
Functionaries of the Chin National Army, Kalay People Defense’s Force (PDF), and refugees in the Indian state of Mizoram confirmed references in the UNODC report to poppy cultivation in the mountains north of Tonzang in Chin State near the border with India. They pointed out that poverty compelled the farmers to grow opium in Chin State and other regions in the country."
https://thediplomat.com/2023/06/myanmar-juntas-drug-trafficking-links/
This begs to question: what are the actual drug laws/policies/practices of the junta, the NUG, and the disparate EOAs?
Just when you think you're learning a thing or two about Myanmar's many plights of suffering, and the potential avenues of alleviation, you learn that the people are increasingly confronting the added suffering of greed's blind eye.
exotic bronze
Heya @woven ingot
I thought you would be interested in this:
https://www.globalwitness.org/en/campaigns/natural-resource-governance/myanmars-poisoned-mountains/
woven ingot
Heya <@456226577798135808>
I thought you would be interested in this:
https:/...
Monday morning read. Thank you, Sir!
woven ingot
Heya <@456226577798135808>
I thought you would be interested in this:
https:/...
I'm taken aback by the overt Chinese influence, and especially the named entities trading in minerals. Sadly, another sign of the international community's reach and authority. I wonder how things have played out with miners and the Chinese since the fighting intensified? Has if effected the flow of minerals? I wouldn't be surprised to find out that they've increased production, not only to feed China's demands, but also to raise capital to buy arms.
With "dysprosium and terbium, the two most valuable of the heavy rare earth metal[s]" still needed the world over, there's no end in sight.
In fact, the Chinese are leveraging their control over similar minerals. As of Monday, they state:
"Beginning Aug. 1., the Chinese Ministry of Commerce said exports of the metals germanium and gallium will be allowed only if exporters secure licenses from the ministry, a move it called essential to “protect national security and interests.”
Furthermore, "The announcement marks the latest in an ongoing back-and-forth between China and the U.S."
Perhaps this is the beginning of leveraging minerals in a more dramatic way to effect international policy. Thanks for the read!
woven ingot
Heya <@456226577798135808>
I thought you would be interested in this:
https:/...
One thing leads to another and your share led to a great video highlighting the nature of rare earth mining. A bit off Myanmar centric conversation, though easily applicable to greater story. It seems this is going to get worse, much worse, and the people who'll really suffer are the proxies destroying their own lands on behalf of China.
exotic bronze
One thing leads to another and your share led to a great video highlighting the ...
Thanks Jimmy… I shall give that a watch
woven ingot
https://asiatimes.com/2023/07/blowing-the-bridge-on-myanmars-shifting-civil-war/
Bridges in the crosshairs
"Not by coincidence, the series of coordinated assaults through the month zeroed in on bridges.
While geographically scattered, the attacks conveyed a clear message: For the first time, joint ethnic and Bamar resistance forces have conducted operations reaching into the national heartland to target infrastructure that is essential to the resupply of an army already facing a critical shortage of transport helicopters and that cannot be defended by airpower."
woven ingot
"More than two years after the attempted military coup in Myanmar, and two years after financial institutions’ investments in Myanmar’s military cartel were first exposed in a Justice For Myanmar and BankTrack briefing, five major French banks and a pension fund continue to invest in twenty-two companies linked to the Myanmar military junta."
"...research has focused on the relationship between French companies in the finance sector by virtue of their shares in companies linked to Myanmar’s military. The companies in which they are shareholders fall into two separate categories"
"Category 1:
Companies that have a direct and long-term commercial relationship with theMyanmar military or with companies controlled by the military predating the coup on 1February 2021.
These include arms manufacturers Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) and AviChinaIndustry & Technology Company, military truck producer Sinotruk Hong Kong Ltd and diversifiedsteel and energy conglomerate POSCO. This category also includes port operator Adani Ports andSpecial Economic Zone, global construction corporation Daiwa House Industry Co. Ltd, global hotel chains Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc and Shangri-La Asia Ltd, and real estate companyTokyo Tatemono Co Ltd."
"Category 2:
Companies that have a direct commercial relationship with Myanmar State-owned economic enterprises that are under military control since the coup on 1 February2021.
These include Chevron Corporation, GAIL (India) Ltd, Oil and Natural Gas Corporation, KDDICorp, Sumitomo Corp, PTT Exploration and Production PCL (PTTEP), Baker Hughes, China OilfieldServices Limited, Diamond Offshore Drilling, Halliburton, PTT Public Company Limited (PTT),Schlumberger (SLB) and Weatherford International. Most of these companies are in commercial partnership with the junta controlled Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise (MOGE)."
https://justiceformyanmar.org/stories/investing-in-myanmars-military-cartel
daring birch
For the people lurking here, there's an excellent job posting available as a lead investigator for the Center of Information Resilience' Myanmar Witness project that just got shared in #jobs
Direct link: #jobs message
tired lichen
https://discord.com/channels/709752884257882135/1087357245400035350/111538288768...
This is a longer and more recent version.
woven ingot
Interesting, the National Unity Government's Minister of International Cooperation, Dr. Sasa, writes in a recent post that:
MYANMAR: Not a Civil War, but a Total National Revolution for Freedom and Federal Democracy
"Myanmar is currently at a historic juncture—a total national uprising and revolution against a genocidal military dictatorship. It is crucial to dispel the misconception that this crisis should be labeled as a civil war. Rather, it is an unwavering fight for freedom and the establishment of an inclusive federal democracy by removing the genocidal military junta. The people of Myanmar, irrespective of their race, religion, culture, language, gender, background, or ethnicity, are united in their fight for a brighter future—a future where darkness is replaced by light, tyranny by freedom, violence by peace, and poverty by prosperity."
https://twitter.com/DrSasa22222/status/1679040124049412096
The statement puts the NUG at odds with international monitoring/research groups who have argued otherwise. What prompted Dr. Sasa and the NUG, for that matter, to confront this head on? Words matter, and few places more than international politics. This may be a unifying message, a message to appease allies/partners, or there may even be some risk to the movement if seen as a civil war, as opposed to an uprising/revolution. We'll have to wait and see if similar messaging comes from other NUG ministers/representatives.
woven ingot
Myanmar Junta Attempting to Increase Domestic Steel Production
"The junta’s industry minister, Charlie Than, attended the 13th Industrial Trade Fair in the Russian city of Yekaterinburg on Monday where he told a discussion on steel production that Myanmar is attempting to increase domestic production of iron and steel with support from Russia."
woven ingot
"Junta planning to build 2 new prisons for political activists"
"The two new prisons will be run by the military, sources close to the prison department said.
The junta’s Mon state prime minister, Aung Kyi Thien, said in a statement on June 23 that he recently visited and inspected the new two-story Mawlamyine prison, which had dining halls, staff quarters and three layers of security.
Officials plan to transfer youth prisoners from two other prisons to Mawlamyine, according to a person close to the prison department, who asked not to be named for security reasons.
“The junta is going to systematically tighten its control of the political prisoners in the newly built prison,” he said “The military is going to directly run the prison so that the political prisoners cannot have any leniency.”
https://www.rfa.org/english/news/myanmar/new-prisons-07062023173606.html
woven ingot
Sexual violence is junta’s ‘modus operandi’, Myanmar activist tells UN
"Since the coup, WLB has documented more than 100 cases of conflict-related sexual violence and gender-based violence, though this is likely to be the tip of the iceberg, Naw Hser Hser said. Among the cases documented are incidents where women have been gang-raped by soldiers, and raped at checkpoints because they are unable to pay bribes."
harsh sigil
woven ingot
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LwS7nQOebzA
Wow. That was top notch reporting. A whole month with them, it's got to mean more pieces in the future. These are the kinds or reports the west is only now starting to see through the fog of so many wars and talk of war. Thanks for sharing this!
dusk swan
Here we have the beginning of the "Myanmar Civil War Known Anti-Junta Forces 202...
Hello , this data collection project is still active? If there's any need for data entry or help , I would like to contribute.
woven ingot
daring birch
Twitter
solid grotto
Interesting that the NYTimes says that 1/2 of Myanmar's territory is no longer under military control - how accurate is this?
daring birch
Interesting that the NYTimes says that 1/2 of Myanmar's territory is no longer u...
Burma has a long history of local nationalist guerrillas that control significant parts of the country. I don't know if 1/2 of the country is accurate but if true it wouldn't be surprising
jolly imp
From WAPO's article - "This article contains photos and videos that may be disturbing to readers."
daring birch
daring birch
daring birch
weary pilot
Myanmar Now: The United States decided to take action against anyone who supplied jet fuel to the War Council
https://myanmar-now.org/mm/news/41122/ (Burmese)
weary pilot
Khit Thit: Shan State The PSLF/TNLA News and Information Department announced that a battle broke out with the TNLA forces as the terrorist army marched in Kut Khaing township and the army suffered casualties.
On August 25, starting at 5:00 p.m. in Kut Khaing township, a battle between the terrorist army and the Taang Army TNLA, which entered Kut Khaing from Nam Phekka with a large force, took place near Long Swe village until 6:00 p.m.
When the terrorist army, loaded with soldiers in 16 cars and fully equipped with weapons, left Nam Phak to Kuk Khaing, they clashed with the 335th Battalion of the 5th Brigade of the Taang National Liberation Army (TNLA) near the village of Long Swe.
During the encounter, there were no casualties on the TNLA side, but there were casualties on the side of the terrorist army, but the details are not yet known. A total of 18 clashes took place between the Taang Army TNLA and the terrorist army from July 23 to August 26, according to the press release of the PSLF/TNLA Press and Information Department.
https://www.facebook.com/100066528465996/posts/pfbid02MUky2s7maYGjErLegStASpauLEwdZ72F6Gwt3U2aVzZHSRFtb15FarTfAzbWTjwkl/
weary pilot
The weapons obtained from The Fence project, which was made for the Karenni National Defense Army KNDF Strategy No. 4, were handed over to the KNDF soldiers in a military ceremony today on August 25.
The Fence fundraising program, which attempted to raise 10,000 kyats, was held last March 20 to April 16. The project has been successful
KNDF Battalion (1) participating in KNDF Strategy (4); Battalion (5); The weapons were handed over to the 6th and 7th Battalions, The Fence Project reported.
weary pilot
An explosion occurred at the office of the Kyun Phut Party in North Ukkala Township and 1 police officer was injured
Yangon, August 26
Yangon, Residents of the region told Khit Thit Media that an explosion occurred at the Kyun Phut Party office in North Ukkala Township, injuring 1 policeman.
On August 26, at 6:57 p.m., an explosion occurred at the North Okkala Township Rhinoceros Party office, and 1 police officer was injured.
"An explosion was heard in the office of North Ukkala. There was damage. A police officer was hit. The sound was loud," a local resident said.
weary pilot
“Chetao Township, Sagaing Region— The deputy battalion commander of the 1st Battalion (Red Dragon Battalion) in Kyaukse District told Khit Thit Media that a drone attack on a terrorist army camp in Nang Deng village killed about 30 soldiers.”
https://www.facebook.com/100066528465996/posts/pfbid02jEgWmvigjDjtoLLXJnh4ejUmqG3NxBsijY3URj1uj4JcTNv2MdJd5Ftr3bGnXU6Tl/
weary pilot
Myanmar’s junta on Sunday ordered the expulsion of East Timor’s top diplomat in the country over a meeting his government held with a banned shadow administration.
https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/myanmar-expels-top-east-timor-diplomat/
weary pilot
Though he has been dead for nearly a decade, long-serving military regime official Aung Thaung’s corrupt legacy lives on in the junta-allied business empires run by his children and their families and associates, whose interests now spread across Myanmar’s economy.
Investigation from The Irrawaddy: https://www.irrawaddy.com/specials/investigation/children-of-notorious-ex-myanmar-junta-minister-continue-corrupt-legacy.html
weary pilot
The junta is now blaming some unnamed banks for Myanmar’s currency crisis and accusing them of disloyalty, an approach economist Sean Turnell—an expert on Myanmar’s economy—described as “simply perverse.”
His comments follow a press conference held by the military junta’s State Administration Council (SAC) on Tuesday in Naypyitaw, where SAC spokesman General Zaw Min Htun said that plenty of support had been given to banks to help them overcome the banking crisis that emerged after the coup.
weary pilot
Myanmar’s junta on Sunday ordered the expulsion of East Timor’s top diplomat in ...
NUG Statement: https://www.facebook.com/100068796986578/posts/pfbid02uMaUqXwjTuYYEM96WBesKR3dKhbp1ZY2CGcA74fmcw2SYrrYQNhyKD5M6JhhVgprl/
weary pilot
Myanmar and China are pushing ahead with a border economic cooperation zone in northern Shan State, according to junta commerce minister Aung Naing Oo.
The minister revealed the regime’s plan to move ahead with the infrastructure project during an interview with CRI Myanmar during his visit to Kunming, China on August 18, according to junta media.
Sagaing Township— The deputy battalion commander of the Red Dragon Battalion in Kyaukse District told Khit Thit Media that 17 people were killed, including a 3rd officer who was there to lead the platoon.
https://www.facebook.com/100066528465996/posts/pfbid0gnVWhkEV6vBufy7qH1rFY91Qct9cRgEx9tQVCHtWYtieDP89dDs6cvYJX8KCr6ipl/
weary pilot
Regime soldiers and Pyu Saw Htee militias were attacked in Myaing, Magway region; at least 5 injured.
https://burmese.dvb.no/archives/613125
weary pilot
At least 30 Myanmar junta troops were killed and many others injured on Saturday in attacks in Demoso Township, eastern Kayah State, according to the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force (KNDF).
woven ingot
Twitter
daring birch
weary pilot
Myanmar’s junta will likely hold elections in 2025, even as the military struggles to crush resistance to its rule, officials of the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) said on Tuesday.
https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/election-likely-in-2025-says-myanmar-militarys-proxy-party/
weary pilot
Karenni fighters seize two Myanmar junta military camps, killing 30 soldiers |
Read more >>
https://www.mizzima.com/article/karenni-fighters-seize-two-myanmar-junta-military-camps-killing-30-soldiers
weary pilot
Political prisoners in Sagaing's Monywa Prison are protesting against the seizure of their possessions during a raid on Friday.
Read more: https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-political-prisoners-launch-hunger-strike.html
weary pilot
CPJ calls for release of Myanmar Now journalist Sai Zaw Thaike jailed for 20 years - https://www.mizzima.com/article/cpj-calls-release-myanmar-now-journalist-sai-zaw-thaike-jailed-20-years
weary pilot
Junta has now deployed UMS Moattama to transport troops, rocket systems and heavy artillery to Rakhine State.
Read more: https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/myanmars-crisis-the-world/danish-firm-supplied-engines-for-myanmars-biggest-warship-during-genocide-report.html
weary pilot
Crosspost in #russia-ukraine-eastern-europe
Myanmar has received the first shipment of two Russian Su-30 fighter jets, Charlie Than, Myanmar's trade minister, told the Russian RIA state news agency in remarks published on Sunday.
https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/myanmar-receives-first-shipment-russias-su-30-fighter-jets-ria-2023-09-10/
weary pilot
Failing to amass enough foreign revenue or keep prices under control, the junta has resorted to investigating one of its own generals among other officials, demanding back taxes from border traders, and cracking down on businessmen
weary pilot
Fair Party (Thailand) list-MP Kannavee Suebsang is pressuring the government to investigate incidents of heavily armed Myanmar soldiers crossing into a border area in Tak’s Umphang district.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2646369/
weary pilot
weary pilot
Statement of NLD on Suu Kyi’s health: https://www.facebook.com/100044469428170/posts/pfbid0bj487uq95wnKTcP7oZEBC7SroNWw5C4qxLxhcgNCzCPv3yX55rohnGqjpN3pRNh8l/
weary pilot
Nearly 20 battles have taken place around Nawnghkio in northern Shan State as part of Operation Kanaung, launched by the resistance in July
https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/mandalay-pdf-claims-to-have-caused-dozens-of-junta-casualties-in-recent-months/
weary pilot
Aerial video shows two bombs dropping on Aye Lar military base next to Naypyitaw International Airport.
Read more: https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/naypyitaw-junta-airbase-hit-by-myanmar-resistance-drone-strike.html
weary pilot
weary pilot
The Myanmar junta is seeking China’s help in implementing a new electronic identity card (eID) that will contain the holder’s biometric information.
https://www.mizzima.com/article/china-help-myanmar-junta-introduce-biometric-id-cards
weary pilot
The Myanmar junta has removed Lieutenant General Moe Myint Tun from his leadership roles on key supervisory bodies overseeing foreign investment, trade and foreign exchange, following his arrest and investigation for corruption.
https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-junta-strips-general-of-key-posts-amid-corruption-probe.html
weary pilot
Mizzima reports NUG representatives met with following world leaders during UNGA sidelines:
- José Ramos-Horta, president of Timor-Leste 🇹🇱
- Gabrielius Landsbergis, foreign minister of Lithuania 🇱🇹
And three of The Elders: - chair Mary Robinson, former president of Ireland 🇮🇪
- Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj, former president of Mongolia 🇲🇳
- Juan Manuel Santos, former president of Colombia 🇨🇴
https://www.facebook.com/100067928020493/posts/pfbid02ub8m6z8yL6Wjs24P19wW4unpapMx8yBSfcBApj8YRZ741DPVAXJSx7EZFggbdqsTl/
weary pilot
Mizzima reports NUG representatives met with following world leaders during UNGA...
Report by NUG Facebook page, on meeting three of The Elders: https://www.facebook.com/100068796986578/posts/pfbid037oUHyVMCjdActSreRdKJdqVvJpQBwyAZXTWzw5vVw9CET8fSXnnVi7kNMc5zgfiAl/
weary pilot
Mizzima reports NUG representatives met with following world leaders during UNGA...
On meeting Landsbergis: https://www.facebook.com/100068796986578/posts/pfbid097hg7PxDbjhwnKCUN9v6tFYCpNzqYXRZqvbXH4UETE4FFznGbw7BS5NgXHSmDzCtl/
weary pilot
weary pilot
weary pilot
weary pilot
Myanmar’s junta boss Min Aung Hlaing has reorganized the regime’s governing body, the State Administration Council (SAC), at least five times since the 2021 coup.
Fifteen SAC members, including three generals, have been removed over the past two years.
weary pilot
weary pilot
“Zalat Thway from Chinland Defence Force - Mindat said: “The military council in Mindat Township, has arrested residents on multiple occasions, whenever they become suspicious. Additionally, the military has also arrested people in Dantdee Village without providing any reasons or justifications. The arrests have even included children who were attending school in the village.”
38 of the arrested people, some of whom were primary school students, were from Dantdee Village and a further 22 were from villages in the western part of Mindat Township. Of the 60 arrested people 50 have been released.”
https://www.mizzima.com/article/primary-school-children-among-60-people-arrested-mindat-township
weary pilot
jolly imp
From June 26, 2023 - https://www.usip.org/publications/2023/06/criminal-cancer-spreads-southeast-asia
weary pilot
Five members of Myanmar army-backed USDP killed in Mandalay Region
The men were targeted for being military informants, an officer in a local guerrilla group says, but no resistance force has claimed responsibility for their murders.
Read more - https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/five-members-of-myanmar-army-backed-usdp-killed-in-mandalay-region/
weary pilot
Twenty-nine people were killed and dozens wounded in a military strike on a camp for displaced people in northern Myanmar, a spokesman for an ethnic rebel group that controls the area told AFP on Tuesday.
https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/29-killed-in-myanmar-junta-strike-on-displaced-persons-camp.html
Images (with blurred dead bodies): ||https://www.facebook.com/100064355002816/posts/pfbid0RLzbWbj3XdzLxUmhghUWJUjApR6U18yE245omnspZJ8gTdRVwA5soHsD3wr8tLw2l/|| (The Irrawaddy)
||https://www.facebook.com/100063475737146/posts/pfbid02RpqjDpeJzSE6He7MsjUTshJX1GMoMCsXPGDgmtaMtB5N9kszeAexH5kdXLPmxwuzl/|| (Myanmar Now)
Aftermath: ||https://fb.watch/nAMsqP3NAN/|| (DVB)
Found a more harrowing post; not here
@tired lichen can I DM you?
weary pilot
Found a more harrowing post; not here
<@411963576748605452> can I DM you?
Things are sorted out now. Thank you!
weary pilot
Locals say that Munglai Hkyet, located three miles from the KIA headquarters in Laiza, is ‘unlivable’ after the military drops multiple bombs or shells on the village in a midnight assault
https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/everything-was-destroyed-in-junta-attack-on-kachin-state-village/
More images of aftermath: ||https://www.facebook.com/100066528465996/posts/pfbid02pjP8UWdkSvndk2P8wNeYFezZMzEAiASodCZigW1PcwvHzfqp8STsB6v8hjb7sPnnl/|| (Khit Thit; may be distressing to view)
weary pilot
Additional images: https://www.facebook.com/100064894171985/posts/pfbid0y3Yftyy6K1CsNLcntUw7doFexsPWbaNq6iTYkc7hwv6TaHEqUrzSziXsoEw19RHql/ (AFP via Mizzima)
||https://www.facebook.com/100063475737146/posts/pfbid025p7DK1W8WDgRhaLMzFKCqkeaK85HdoCvyt51rL7fzXWCg8qR2fRRgbsXWcz5yMEl/|| (Myanmar Now; covered remains)
Hard to find any piece of bomb used. Trying to look where it could have come from
The Kachin Women’s Association of Thailand releases a report detailing rights abuses in areas that wil be part of the Myanmar-China Economic Corridor.
https://kachinwomen.com/bloodstained-gateways-escalating-sac-abuses-in-northern-burma-pave-the-way-for-bri-expansion/
PDF in English: ||https://kachinwomen.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Bloodstained_Gateways_final.pdf|| (details of physical and sexual violence)
weary pilot
Investigation by and testimonies gathered by Amnesty International on the Mung Lai Hkyet attack (details of gore and violence; no pictures): ||https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2023/10/myanmar-28-civilians-killed-in-military-air-strike-new-investigation-and-witness-testimony/||
weary pilot
weary pilot
You be the judge: how probable will the Philippine justice system work in favour of the Burmese nationals?
https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-nationals-file-case-against-junta-in-philippines.html
weary pilot
Myanmar junta reportedly arrests former Information Minister Ye Htut
https://www.facebook.com/100064355002816/posts/pfbid0ZKcpwymt6J7aTQtL4JQA4UkXyL9QRTn9HFfwJvBtRJ1C6vDqDLzVcXXC2ZGBQdotl/ (The Irrawaddy)
weary pilot
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/myanmar-ethnic-groups-seize-more-outposts-towns-in-offensive-against-junta from #asia-pacific message
sullen lantern
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/myanmar-ethnic-groups-seize-more-outpo...
This source, in my experience, has been highly reliable
sullen lantern
weary pilot
Flag-raising ceremony by the resistance alliance in newly-captured Kawlin
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/V9wwNUXDCBKxivdp/ (NUG)
Khampat has also been captured by the Alliance
https://burma.irrawaddy.com/news/2023/11/07/376153.html (Burmese)
daring birch
weary pilot
Operation 1027 mapping: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/cVVUjoodku9ZJzzW/ (The Irrawaddy):
daring birch
weary pilot
The body of a junta K-8 fighter jet that crashed in Taungoo district in Karen National Union-controlled territory was found on Sunday. The pilots ejected from the plane before it crashed. Resistance groups in Karenni (Kayah) State claimed they shot down the jet.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/E4ycnkmgHUNs7ziM/
cobalt current
cobalt current
The Myanmar opposition seem to feel very optimistic right now. A lot of reports of military success and speculation that the sit-tat is about to suffer a failure cascade
weary pilot
sullen lantern
weary pilot
The Irrawaddy roundup, 17 November 2023
https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/junta-continues-to-lose-bases-as-resistance-operations-expand-across-myanmar.html
sullen lantern
weary pilot
Kayah State Operation 1111/1107 infographics (The Irrawaddy)
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/nhnABwohNMgPnuH4/
weary pilot
The pilot of a crashed Myanmar K-8 aircraft who ejected and has been taken prisoner by the Karenni resistance forces today, according to reliable sources.
https://www.mizzima.com/article/pilot-crashed-myanmar-junta-aircraft-taken-prisoner-karenni-resistance
weary pilot
sullen lantern
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/myanmar-junta-ethnic-resistance-operation-1...
Singapore state media and highly reliable in my experience
weary pilot
Singapore state media and highly reliable in my experience
Would be in Myanmar. Local issues many SG state media are not reliable for me. Straits Times spews rubbish in that aspect. CNA however has a degree of impartiality.
Better discussion at #non-osint-discussion though.
weary pilot
The Karenni State Legislative Committee has changed its name to the Karenni State Interim Parliament (KSIP), according to a 17 November 2023 statement.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/k5ZdDDP9WZX7k9Yr/ (Mizzima)
weary pilot
Pauktaw was captured by AA, then retaken by the Tatmadaw, then by AA again. It has been under Tatmadaw attacks after.
https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/arakan-army-in-fierce-fighting-to-retake-town-near-rakhine-capital-from-myanmar-junta.html
sullen lantern
Share Message - The Chinese mafia's downfall in a lawless casino town
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-67471138
cunning gazelle
weary pilot
One of Myanmar’s Operation 1027 resistance group alliance has seized control from the country's ruling junta of a lucrative border crossing to China, local media and a security source said Sunday.
https://www.mizzima.com/article/myanmars-operation-1027-resistance-group-seizes-china-myanmar-border-crossing
weary pilot
Something worth investigating
https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-junta-will-continue-to-use-chemical-weapons-mndaa.html
The regime is previously accused of CW usage, and the articles I have read regarding the issue state there is no conclusive evidence of possession and usage thereby. Despite this, it is worth investigating this matter.
Two articles give a background of the beliefs Burmese regimes had CWs
https://idsa.in/cbwmagazine/chemical-concerns-myanmar
https://thebulletin.org/2020/03/myanmar-should-finally-come-clean-about-its-chemical-weapons-past-with-us-help/amp/
A Myanmar Now interview with a TNLA soldier giving a testimony on recent CW usage was cited by this Asia Times article: https://asiatimes.com/2023/11/is-myanmars-embattled-regime-using-chemical-weapons/
sullen lantern
One of Myanmar’s Operation 1027 resistance group alliance has seized control fro...
Unfamiliar with this source however Irrawaddy which I find dependable says same
https://vxtwitter.com/IrrawaddyNews/status/1729001128048906566?t=LVFuUdDE3gPFtUIsfbSCpg&s=19
weary pilot
Most popular outlets include Myanmar Now, Mizzima, The Irrawaddy, DVB and Khit Thit. All are critical to the junta.
Frontier is another reliable source
Sad to say Myanmar Now installed a paywall to maintain its operations.
weary pilot
Myanmar offensives— infographics, one month after start of Operation 1027.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/sVknA7Um8KhdnXTz/ (The Irrawaddy)
weary pilot
The Three Brotherhood Alliance resistance group has declared its readiness to conduct the “second phase of a coordinated offensive” to mark one month of Operation 1027 on 27 November.
https://www.mizzima.com/article/northern-ethnic-rebels-ready-second-phase-offensive-mark-one-month-operation-1027
weary pilot
Konkyan, the northern township in Kokang zone, now under Alliance control
https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/another-entire-junta-battalion-raises-the-white-flag-in-myanmars-northern-shan-state.html
sullen lantern
Really would like a recent map showing territorial control by faction if it exists
weary pilot
Really would like a recent map showing territorial control by faction if it exis...
I don’t know how often Thomas Van Linge on Twitter updates the maps he posts; maybe he has a recent one after Konkyan capture
sullen lantern
I don’t know how often Thomas Van Linge on Twitter updates the maps he posts; ma...
sullen lantern
Article about the fortification of the main cities
weary pilot
The Irrawaddy Myanmar offensives roundup, 01 December 2023
https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/no-let-up-in-myanmar-junta-losses-as-resistance-attacks-continue.html
weary pilot
KNU attacks junta base near Asian Highway (number not indicated but likely 1 due to location) in Kawkareik, Kayin State to cut the trade route between Myanmar and Thailand.
https://myanmar-now.org/mm/news/46374/ (Burmese)
weary pilot
The Loikaw People’s Defence Force (PDF) and Falcon Wings launched a drone attack on the armory of the junta’s Infantry Battalion 54 in Karenni State’s Loikaw Town on Friday, they said. The armory was destroyed by a fire caused by the drone attack. Intense clashes are still breaking out between resistance and junta military troops as resistance groups try to seize the town.
Photo: The junta’s armory in Loikaw pictured on December 1. /Loikaw PDF
Coordinates: 19.666540, 97.229689; I don’t have knowledge on munitions though. https://www.facebook.com/share/p/VFPTHqvW1Ssd6pYJ/ (The Irrawaddy)
sullen lantern
cunning gazelle
What’s more, as longtime Myanmar military analyst Anthony Davis notes in Asia Times, were the military to launch a counteroffensive toward the north, they would leave themselves wide open to guerilla attacks from opposition forces. Were the military to retreat from much of the north and just try to protect a few big cities in central Myanmar, including its headquarters in Naypyidaw, it would be a major psychological defeat
This explains quite a bit. I was wondering why they hadn't done any significant counterplay but it seems they really are stretched too thin
weary pilot
“State collapse”? Maybe I just have biases for the NUG, but the writer seems to disregard the interim government’s federalism plans for the fighting groups to reconcile with one another.
The sentiment I am perceiving from the Burmese public is support for the NUG and the dissolution of the Tatmadaw. I however fail to find polls regarding approval ratings for the former.
daring birch
For that you'd need to assume that the NUG is able to take back power from the Tatmadaw
And right now the NUG is an actor that's allied with nationalist and separatist groups
Taking over the heartland of the Burmese state and then convicing NUG's nationalist allies to stay under the same umbrella will still require a very strong military and political power
sullen lantern
@daring birch
@cunning gazelle
I'm struck how relatively small each fighting force is
Junta: at most probably 150,000
Rebels: about 65,000
The country is about the size of Ukraine or Texas
daring birch
And has a much higher population, twice of Texas's or 50% more than Ukraine's
cobalt current
I'm not going to post the pictures except on request, but there are recordings today being shared of the aftermath of an ambush on a company sized group of tatmadaw soldiers, reportedly those who were attempting to break out of this encirclement. It's hard to tell what's truthful or not, but the situation in Shan state appears to be a complete rout
weary pilot
Myanmar National Unity Government
Ministry of Human Rights
Report on human rights violations committed during Operation 1027
04 December 2023
Shows regime violations only; alliance violations not covered
https://www.facebook.com/share/xoNk7PFxfbrVFZ35/
weary pilot
“A Myanmar resistance group used a drone to drop two bombs on the junta air force base in Bago’s Taungoo Township at 11.00 am on 1 December, a spokesperson for the Northern Thandaung Special Region told Mizzima.”
Base map: https://www.google.com/maps/place/29MX%2BJ9P+Taungoo+Air+Force+Base,+Unnamed+Road,+Kaytumati,+Myanmar+(Burma)/@19.0340928,96.3984384,13z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x30c6759b622c4379:0xb9588d1249822f05!8m2!3d19.0340928!4d96.3984384!16s%2Fg%2F11ft39lj_l
https://www.facebook.com/share/AqQ7MHtHKtDrX2Sh/
Camera faces east
daring birch
There's only that picture right?
No video footage, so those bombs may have been duds
Or completely missed their target
daring birch
Advances in Bago towards the Sittaung river valley (on which also lies Naypyidaw, albeit a couple hundred km North) and central Burma https://vxtwitter.com/IrrawaddyNews/status/1731913479429242899
weary pilot
Advances in Bago towards the Sittaung river valley (on which also lies Naypyidaw...
Mone first town to be captured from regime forces
https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-resistance-seizes-first-town-in-bago-region-knu.html
More CW usage allegations; this time at Paletwa Township, Chin State.
https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/arakan-army-accuses-myanmar-junta-of-chemical-warfare.html
Youths fleeing the war find themselves recruited for the regime in Laukkaing, Kokang zone, Shan State
https://burmese.dvb.no/archives/628106
Military Council to open case against two soldiers who shared articles from local Rakhine media outlet.
https://burmese.dvb.no/archives/628101
sullen lantern
daring birch
weary pilot
The Irrawaddy Myanmar offensives roundup, 08 December 2023
https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/myanmar-junta-loses-dozens-of-troops-more-bases-in-three-days-of-resistance-attacks.html
weary pilot
Myanmar offensives, mapping the developments
10 December 2023
https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02iTdwAEnXDL5UTEVDzKwvRt92p3M6yFUrwcxoLjdXVRJaW6uSgCKkE1GsCNpn7jdfl&id=100064355002816 (The Irrawaddy)
weary pilot
KNDF captures Karenni State Police Force headquarters in state capital Loikaw after almost a month of fighting.
https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid0zdRheEscEaT3eUiMxtmXfENUNoR45jgCdV3jMcGxzGUKKFcYvVmkMSEWxsY5HBQBl&id=100064355002816 (The Irrawaddy)
weary pilot
Would worsen the anti-PRC ire from Myanmar peeps if successful
https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/myanmar-military-meets-rebel-groups-with-chinas-help-junta-spokesperson-2023-12-11/
sullen lantern
Would worsen the anti-PRC ire from Myanmar peeps if successful
https://www.reute...
I'm not positive China has strong feelings for or against either side here, you?
weary pilot
I'm not positive China has strong feelings for or against either side here, you?
It’s neutral in the offensive, but a halting the offensive would prevent further junta losses, which critics would hate.
sullen lantern
It’s neutral in the offensive, but a halting the offensive would prevent further...
So China's neutrality may have been based on their assumption the rebels would fail to undo the coup?
weary pilot
Looks more on economic concerns. A conflict beside its borders hampers trade (seizures of border checkpoints, for instance)
sullen lantern
Looks more on economic concerns. A conflict beside its borders hampers trade (se...
Is China OK with peace resulting from rebellion, though? Would they fear that would give an example that rebellion might be tried in China?
weary pilot
Response has also been muted, not showing explicit support for either side, but limited to calls for restraint
weary pilot
Mapping the base: https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02RShy4SAX4AdEWGdthDt3xWwG5HxAdmPzcaxumkuDouBxAZAmCcR4Q6fDRbJPRZtVl&id=100064582638283 (AA Info Desk via Myanmar Now)
weary pilot
Mapping the base: https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02RShy4SAX4AdEW...
The three bases are located with coordinates below:
- 21.487308, 92.737873 (red)
- 21.495334, 92.749954 (pink)
- 21.499766, 92.754868 (orange)
https://www.google.com/maps/@21.4945852,92.7369075,2098m/data=!3m1!1e3?entry=ttu
weary pilot
Also for crossposting in #asia-pacific
“Opium cultivation in the Golden Triangle continued to expand over the past year, with a significant increase in Myanmar, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has reported in their latest opium survey for Southeast Asia released in Bangkok today.”
weary pilot
weary pilot
Mizzima: The Black Panther Column People’s Defence force (PDF) announced that it had taken control of the Asia Highway between Myawaddy on the Thai border and Kawkareik, on 10 December.
https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid0QQ6aWQps5guhynsS9bVnPjtHrt4GcvYUQLn7PNRsooFkYpuEHtMwW3EGVA64RXRjl&id=100064894171985
weary pilot
Mawlu in Katha District, bordering Kachin State becomes 4th Sagaing Region town to be captured by the Alliance.
https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02kmRSGgXwfKWtuwzmTQojuCny7uro7rxQiNPyN61HGNfG3jebognMqTAEcFD6PmQql&id=100064582638283 (Myanmar Now)
weary pilot
TNLA captures Namsan, Shan State
https://myanmar-now.org/mm/news/46958/ (Burmese)
I need an English version of this map.
https://myanmar-now.org/mm/news/46595/
Maybe later
sullen lantern
Maybe later
Tried Google Lens?
weary pilot
Tried Google Lens?
Was gonna do that at my desktop
weary pilot
AA claims victories across Rakhine State
https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/arakan-army-claims-victories-over-myanmar-junta-across-rakhine-state.html
Relevant maps below:
One handy source is the AA Info Desk; I’m currently having trouble checking it today.
https://t.me/aainfodesk
weary pilot
Guide on factions in the Alliance and allies: https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/whos-who-in-the-two-major-anti-regime-offensives-in-myanmar.html
weary pilot
Guide on factions in the Alliance and allies: https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war...
1027 factions
weary pilot
Guide on factions in the Alliance and allies: https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war...
1107/1111 factions
spring flume
jolly imp
https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2023/12/17/world/asia/myanmar-cyber-scam.html
archived version: https://archive.is/20231218010823/https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2023/12/17/world/asia/myanmar-cyber-scam.html
weary pilot
Opposition forces declare 85% of Loikaw, capital of Kayah/Karenni State, under their control
https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid08UqYKhmsXMpPLoyQjAaRhbh6gpXmUyPW4PygoXosw4vLqDAj4x4L2LVR8NANLmRFl&id=100064582638283 (Myanmar Now)
sullen lantern
weary pilot
Entire Namkham township in Muse District, Shan State under opposition control
https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid0PWZ3Jdi3cKdykEk3rvePMDjEa1jieGs9Cc72nK9My34DR4AitgS1SjTAiFvvKUqnl&id=100064582638283 (Myanmar Now)
harsh sigil
https://x.com/nicholas6284/status/1736670480608936267?s=46&t=Rbs2re4xsx-mSfOAiAJHLQ Use of FPV drones by resistance
Notably these aren't quadcopter designs, possibly for greater range at cost of maneuverability
Judging by the music, the people recording this have seen their fair share of Ukrainian combat footage
daring birch
This quotes an AI (Amnesty International) report https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/myanmar-junta-accused-war-crimes-over-response-rebel-offensive-2023-12-21/
tired lichen
This quotes an AI (Amnesty International) report https://www.reuters.com/world/a...
We're going to have to remember to refer to them as Amnesty; AI is too confusing.
daring birch
Yeah, point taken
tired lichen
I would probably have been guilty of it too, hence 'we'.
sullen lantern
We're going to have to remember to refer to them as Amnesty; AI is too confusing...
@daring birch
Yeah I too initially thought you meant the technology not the organization
daring birch
I changed it so it's no longer ambiguous 😉
weary pilot
Mizzima: Defence forces control Myeik to Kawthaung road in Tanintharyi Township
https://eng.mizzima.com/2023/12/23/5577
weary pilot
HRW accuses MNDAA of forcibly recruiting civilians to engage in combat
https://eng.mizzima.com/2023/12/23/5583 (Mizzima)
Statement: https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/12/21/myanmar-armed-group-abuses-shan-state
Smells fishy from one of the two groups. IDK
weary pilot
Entire Palaung SAZ now under TNLA control
https://myanmar-now.org/mm/news/47205/ (Burmese)
weary pilot
Town of Natthankwin in Kyaukkyi Township, Bago Region now under opposition control
https://myanmar-now.org/mm/news/47244/ (Burmese)
weary pilot
PSLF and TNLA capture Namtu town, Kyaukme Township, Shan State
https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid0R89jb9C7JBxE4ZqVNF9U8XZq8VpE4G1E6tzgZRPXqqihfZgJ85FJ78cvD7YQBJ3Hl&id=100064582638283 (Myanmar Now)
weary pilot
The Irrawaddy Myanmar operations roundup, 27 December 2023
https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/myanmar-junta-responds-to-battlefield-losses-with-more-attacks-on-civilians.html
weary pilot
Myanmar operations summary two months after: https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/conflicts-in-numbers/myanmars-operation-1027-against-the-junta-two-months-on.html (The Irrawaddy)
The paper also lost embed ugh
weary pilot
Junta conducts airstrikes in Laukkai, Kokang SAZ; MNDAA captures certain sections of the city; PRC calls for evacuation of its citizens
https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid0fY9xPoKyocb8uMH44Gr5QaqNchzjx3qE7tur1EdPnR2PhB4GpkL2A32tGQL4yV6Tl&id=100064894171985 (Mizzima)
weary pilot
The drop bomb strategy of opposition forces, narrated in this article. The showcased is Mandalay PDF; the bombs are 3D printed.
https://www.msn.com/en-za/news/world/high-impact-drop-bombs-retaking-the-sky-from-myanmar-junta/ar-AA1medoT
weary pilot
TNLA captures Mongngaw, Kyaukme Township
https://myanmar-now.org/mm/news/47604/ (Burmese)
weary pilot
An anonymous activist who is a member of the Milk Tea Alliance Myanmar Facebook group told Mizzima on the condition of anonymity, “In its statement, NUG says it accepts the One China principle. That means the NUG appears to be betraying the Milk Tea Alliance activists, who expressed strong support for Myanmar’s Spring Revolution”.
https://eng.mizzima.com/2024/01/02/5838
weary pilot
An anonymous activist who is a member of the Milk Tea Alliance Myanmar Facebook ...
Statement of NUG. Some supporters condemned the lack of consideration towards ROC, as shown in the comments section.
https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02fhmRnb3VGUBHdESPQNZA5uz4CFAY37FVqW6vG5UUyyLLULLeYd39oU1AEdAu8B1fl&id=100068796986578
weary pilot
An anonymous activist who is a member of the Milk Tea Alliance Myanmar Facebook ...
At last, Mizzima embeds, although Irrawaddy no longer does. Loses and gains 🥴
weary pilot
KIA announces shootdown of a junta helicopter near its own headquarters
https://myanmar-now.org/mm/news/47794/ (Burmese)
weary pilot
In observance of the 76th Independence Day on 4 January, the Military Council declared the pardoning of 9,652 prisoners.
https://eng.mizzima.com/2024/01/04/5876
weary pilot
In observance of the 76th Independence Day on 4 January, the Military Council de...
Among those released were Mandalay mayor Dr. Ye Lwin and City Development Committee member U Kyaw Zeya after 3 years in Obo prison.
https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02E4mDpmVU75aFVvqxwWf2kq9zgwAYwKXkckprz3XKKkBxvaTD61hoSAwTrjtTwTkLl&id=100064355002816 (The Irrawaddy)
weary pilot
In observance of the 76th Independence Day on 4 January, the Military Council de...
Another released was Kaung Sett Lin of the Myanmar Press Photo Agency.
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid06PBptLiFdPpMER4HkNf5X9spVNnAFJSHnVVMh2GN6mStabNt48wrwfUmtoadi6val&id=100064355002816 (The Irrawaddy)
weary pilot
MNDAA completely captures Laukkai; entire Kokang SAZ now under opposition control
https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02qA1AeA1csxE4S3NWj2rs2X84boXoSKM27X4Mu7i4dKqXhLQXRSVaejoRKSexGgBgl&id=100064582638283 (Myanmar Now)
During the offensive, five people in Nansan, Yunnan, were injured by stray shells, causing PRC to lodge protest.
https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/artillery-shells-restive-myanmar-region-hit-southwest-china-town-global-times-2024-01-04/
Waiting for Loikaw, Karenni State, plus the entire state as well
weary pilot
A handout photo made available by the Myanmar military information team shows Myanmar military chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing (R) greeting Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong (L) during their meeting in Naypyitaw, Myanmar, 05 January 2024. EPA-EFE
https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid0qmwCVHrjaofD14B5fnico7fZyTV8H9tDVz4coDo84U9135PaRSYbLMm2mErnLqzZl&id=100064894171985 (Mizzima)
daring birch
Claim of Junta bombing a village https://vxtwitter.com/BawiMang4/status/1743897960742859046
cobalt current
weary pilot
TNLA captures two military camps— one in Kutkai, another in Hsenwi/Theinni, both in northern Shan State— effectively giving the force control over the two towns.
https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid034HdrdGTArB7mvEguuyZd5usHUD89T9jSjbbRLDZFT2ECE8JNVhJYG4wUbRcjdsz5l&id=100066528465996 (Khit Thit Media)
Fire breaks out in Kutupalong refugee camp in Bangladesh, displacing 7000 Rohingya refugees.
https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/rohingya-crisis/336118/unhcr-nearly-7-000-rohingya-refugees-homeless-as
For crossposting in #india-subcontinent
weary pilot
Myanmar Navy chief Admiral Moe Aung has been sacked from his post and replaced by Commodore Zwe Win Myint, the current chief of naval staff.
https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid0GmGJ2b8B64pT517YYhA7Pc7ZJqY7ZfbKBW3TSFf4DipjQz37cvVvUiR9FEkCyaXzl&id=100064355002816 (The Irrawaddy)
cobalt current
While the recent advances in Shan state have gathered more attention, there have been numerous reports from western Rakhine state in the past month of various army bases falling to rebel forces. The Arakan Army keeps claiming new victories.
https://fixupx.com/operation1027/status/1744341797353193907?s=20
weary pilot
“The UWSA joins the Brotherhood Alliance of ethnic armed organisations in taking over Hopang, which was partly under junta control”
https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/wa-army-claims-control-of-china-myanmar-border-town/
weary pilot
A Myanmar junta court has handed a life imprisonment sentence to Shin Daewe, a 50-year-old renowned filmmaker who has garnered numerous international awards, as confirmed by her cousin, Ko Myint Thu.
https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02ynxH3g6e2WrhMP7w6uhcshe9adHu6WT71MYAxjiXVMQM36FXSXPCbbuKviqG3aRCl&id=100064894171985 (Mizzima)
weary pilot
Myanmar's junta chief Min Aung Hlaing met with a special envoy from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, state media reported, as Laos takes over chairing the bloc, which has encouraged peace efforts in the country
https://reut.rs/47uTyXB
weary pilot
Tatmadaw forces loyal to six arrested generals after the Laukkai offensive are poised to retaliate against the regime itself. This will put regime-held Lashio, one of Shan State’s largest cities, at risk of getting captured by opposition forces.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/Yxt6zG2GFn59szBn/ (Khit Thit Media)
weary pilot
Myanmar junta and Three-Brotherhood Alliance confirm China-mediated ceasefire
https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02KFKB66ZMDLW2vdARXavGCKTa5w4qowjoJTq7f6YaQZzrRKyYCGwYEwS29ATsq9bdl&id=100064894171985 (Mizzima)
daring birch
Myanmar junta and Three-Brotherhood Alliance confirm China-mediated ceasefire
<h...
Article at The Irrawady https://www.irrawaddy.com/specials/myanmar-china-watch/brotherhood-alliance-myanmar-junta-agree-to-ceasefire-in-northern-shan.html
cunning gazelle
Ceasefire limited to Northern Shan state, so fighting can continue in other areas
daring birch
That was longer than what I was accounting for 
brittle blade
Yeah, it was probably over optimistic but I did hope the ceasefire might last at least until the next day rather than a matter of hours
Then again, the nature of the war really precludes anything of that nature
low needle
wonder if this is like a proper break or a lingering event that doesn't dislodge the cease fire in the long run
cobalt current
tired lichen
The nearest border is Bangladesh, though? (20km vs 80km)
cobalt current
That's true, but by "the entire area up to the Indian border" I believe they mean the Kaladan/Chhimtuipui river valley, which extends north to India
daring birch
Things appear to be severely deteriorating for the Junta in West Myanmar https://vxtwitter.com/morgmichaels/status/1747444615626752428
daring birch
Also tanks claimed to be destroyed in Bago region, in the country's centre
https://vxtwitter.com/IrrawaddyNews/status/1747546555668947242
cobalt current
https://vxtwitter.com/IrrawaddyNews/status/1747197269844332641
https://fixupx.com/kokomdy/status/1747608164118503898?s=20
more detail has come out about this
sullen lantern
Also tanks claimed to be destroyed in Bago region, in the country's centre
http...
IEDs?
weary pilot
Myanmar offensives 80 days after start: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/hsSuDRCXxJRTPfjm/ (The Irrawaddy)
weary pilot
Tigyaing in Sagaing Region “80% destroyed”
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/ojr6XJ6cTyrVnGpW/ (Tigyaing Revolution via The Irrawaddy)
weary pilot
After weeks of fighting and see-saw control, locals in Pauktaw, Arakan/Rakhine report the town is now under AA.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/USLzKD8YhxxpPT62/ (Myanmar Now)
weary pilot
The town of Mabein in Shan State is now under opposition control after KIA takes over a military base there.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/zkDEFzfVaoC6CbZW/ (Khit Thit Media)
daring birch
Clear sign of a functioning military, let's see what it leads to https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/defeated-myanmar-junta-generals-given-death-sentences.html
brittle blade
Clear sign of a functioning military, let's see what it leads to https://www.irr...
Definitely reminds me of the purges and general command chaos in the dying days of Nazi Germany. It’s probably a function of all authoritarian regimes when faced with collapse
daring birch
Definitely reminds me of the purges and general command chaos in the dying days ...
It still has a long way to go as the PDF and allies have yet to capture any major city, yet alone penetrating into the Irrawaddy river valley
brittle blade
Oh yeah militarily the resistance has yet to make major inroads, but the internal political situation within the Tatmadaw seems to be worsening by the month
daring birch
Yes, it comes to show how fragile authoritarian, strongmen regimes are once their facade falls and cracks begin to appear
distant steppe
You be the judge: how probable will the Philippine justice system work in favour...
Fascinating. Will look at it...
weary pilot
“Powerful ethnic armed group the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) found the wreckage of a Chinese-made FTC 2000G junta fighter jet near Nant Phat Kar Village in Kutkai Township, northern Shan State on Thursday, 10 days after its troops shot down the aircraft.”
https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02oopZJPthqSQ3CsnqgzXq69HGfth44Adr7UEvdsbW7Dez5JSkgtfX67zB7uxcQdfbl&id=100064355002816 (The Irrawaddy)
weary pilot
The Pa-O National Liberation Army, a group that previously avoided clashes with the regime, raised its flag around Hsihseng on Thursday
https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/pa-o-karenni-forces-seize-control-of-town-in-southern-shan-state/
weary pilot
The bridge over the Mekong River connecting Myanmar and Laos reopened on Thursday for the first time since it was shut during the pandemic. The Myanmar-Laos Friendship Bridge is important for trade between China, Laos and Myanmar, which are all members of Beijing-led Mekong-Lancang Cooperation. Shan State chief minister Aung Zaw, who was appointed by the junta, and Vice Governor Sivillay Paneko of Luang Namtha Province in Laos attended the reopening ceremony.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/XBv3WCnJfPqDjww4/ (The Irrawaddy)
weary pilot
The Karen National Liberation Army and allied People’s Defense Forces captured a junta military camp in Tanintharyi Region’s Dawei Township on Wednesday, killing 15 regime soldiers and arresting seven more. They also seized a cache of arms and ammunition from Kyauk Htu camp. It was the first regime military camp seized in Tanintharyi Region, the Defense Ministry of the civilian National Unity Government said.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/vKPUiwxpQ1whz67c/
weary pilot
The Pa-O National Liberation Army, a group that previously avoided clashes with ...
Announcement on declaring offensive against the junta: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/CbKa4K8WzKbhYfx7/ (Khit Thit Media)
weary pilot
Junta and PNLA clash over the control of Hsihseng town, southern Shan, currently under PNLA.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/WurdFvzTSYV6b8wq/ (Khit Thit Media)
weary pilot
Northern Alliance ends Operation 1027 with continued opposition towards the junta. The offensive ran for three months. Clashes will continue outside northern Shan State.
https://bur.mizzima.com/2024/01/28/13375 (Burmese)
weary pilot
Northern Alliance ends Operation 1027 with continued opposition towards the junt...
Regime losses: https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/conflicts-in-numbers/operation-1027-delivered-three-months-of-humiliation-to-myanmars-junta.html
weary pilot
“Brigadier General Aye Min Naung, the head of the Myanmar army’s 44th Division, and four other junta officers were killed when their helicopter was shot down by ethnic Karen resistance forces and People’s Defense Forces in Myawaddy Township, Karen State on Monday afternoon, according to the Karen Information Center (KIC), a local independent media outlet.”
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/2eoaeD4nCzBK1AHk/ (The Irrawaddy)
weary pilot
Fighting continues in northern Shan State as junta loses a military base in Nam Hpat Kar, Kutkai Township to KIA
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1wfGPFUn6bkXaCv3/ (The Irrawaddy)
weary pilot
NUG Minister of International Cooperation Dr. Sasa: “Confirmed Demise of Senior Junta Officials: A Great Setback for Myanmar's Brutal Military Junta. It has been confirmed that five high-ranking members of the brutal Myanmar junta, including Brigadier General Aye Min Naung, Major Soe Lwin Tun, Major Toe Oo, the co-pilot, and the drone specialist, lost their lives when the military helicopter carrying them came under fire from brave freedom fighters in Karen state.”
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/xCtYZL5yM4NwRKrC/
woven ingot
https://www.reddit.com/r/Myanmarcombatfootage/comments/1acz7x9/yesagyo_pdf_training_video/
From citizens to a national treasure, and dominion on the battlefields to prove just as much. Excellent.
weary pilot
Streets in Myanmar's commercial hub Yangon are quieter than usual, with a heavy military presence in parts of the city where soldiers stand guard at checkpoints and patrol in trucks, as the nation marks the third anniversary of a 2021 coup d'etat.
Opponents of the military have called for people to stay indoors in a "silent strike" against the coup.
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/BnBMx52ExjAM5CUv/ (Mizzima)
AA announces complete capture of Pauktaw, Arakan (Rakhine) State
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/KF8HVzSnt8hSt8Zf/ (Mizzima)
weary pilot
Groups critical to the Marcos and Duterte regimes in the Philippines protest against the junta on the anniversary of the coup
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/U2Tqb5GtPuSpJvqv/ (Khit Thit Media)
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/dPiCvoZxqZsbXPTU/ (The Philippine Star)
Also see #1201401016420159510
French protesters: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/uQF8CXnWq4oMostQ/ (Khit Thit)
shy tapir
anyone monitoring what happened the 31st of january?
Talking with refugees from Myanmar they were visibly sad and not talkative.
so not having specifics... - I tried the obvious the witness and some dorking but i didn't find anything yet.
actually it might be what NerdGuy07 posted: "The junta announced on Wednesday night that Thein Soe was allowed to retire on health grounds. Ko Ko has replaced him as the election body chief."
but it was wednesday during day
daring birch
Can you please share a link to what you're talking about so we can be sure we're on the same page? (:
shy tapir
https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-junta-replaces-election-body-chief....
^ this link.
I however tried googling: သိန်းစိုး (Thein Shoe) and the 31st of January. however in Myanmar I don't see any news about his retirement (tried: အနားယူပါ။ and အငြိမ်းစား) so I can't confirm this news.
shy tapir
I think I found what made them "sick" -https://www.voanews.com/a/myanmar-junta-eases-rules-governing-political-parties/7464627.html
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/1/31/myanmar-military-extends-emergency-rule-for-another-six-months and https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/myanmar-junta-eases-election-registration-rules-ahead-expiry-state-emergency-2024-01-31/ as one source is no source.
woven ingot
"Homemade RPG 7 and RPG rounds made by PDF in Yinmarbin, Sagaing Region."
#bombs-arms-drones-other-killing-machines message
woven ingot
"A cannon with 5 barrels made by PDF in Sagaing."
#bombs-arms-drones-other-killing-machines message
woven ingot
A horrible video is circulating which is alleged to show two PDF soldiers who are in the custody of Myanmar junta soldiers, which are tortured, shackled, chained up and dragged in the street only to be hung from a tree and burned alive while the village people stand around, en mass, and watch —while the junta soldiers cheer and jest.
Will be attempting to submit this to the US State Dept. reporting portal.
So sad.
woven ingot
The report was successfully submitted to the Department of State.
The HRG Number: H-20240206191039386.
weary pilot
“During the continuous fighting in Rakhine (Arakan) State, the AA managed to sink three junta warships, and junta members were being cleared from the ship, and the remaining police battalion in Mrauk U was captured, the Three-Brotherhood Alliance announced on the evening of February 8.”
https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid0xegRgpBRqqmVPxxb6f66BmfFXKj5vHY7p1m5yjjj1ZnU4fnc5QJwh552w7WV5EQBl&id=100067928020493 (Mizzima)
daring birch
The Junta has issued enforced conscription https://vxtwitter.com/YeMyoHein5/status/1756321384278401201
weary pilot
harsh sigil
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zz7yu3oc5sQ France 24 put out a very good on the ground piece yesterday
weary pilot
weary pilot
Junta convoy loses 30 troops, 12 vehicles in resistance attacks in Dawei
About 30 regime troops were killed and 12 military vehicles were destroyed in Tanintharyi Region’s Dawei Township during the five days of clashes with the Karen National Liberation Army and People’s Defense Forces, local media reported.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/FpA733E8HEZ9Lq1d/ (The Irrawaddy)
weary pilot
Under the Reserve Forces Law, army pensioners can be recalled for service within five years of retirement or coaxed back with promises of income
https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/myanmar-junta-tries-to-re-enlist-veterans-back-into-military/
woven ingot
Anyone did any research about the kk park or linked profiles
weary pilot
“Soon after the Arakan Army overwhelmed the regime forces’ defences at a training centre 10 miles from Minbya, junta airstrikes injured civilians and destroyed a hospital in nearby villages”
https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/aa-seizes-last-junta-base-in-minbya-township-rakhine-state/
weary pilot
While the EU and US have sanctioned MOGE, UK companies and those in British Overseas Territories can do business with the entity, which provides major revenue to the Myanmar junta
https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/uk-minister-says-inappropriate-to-speculate-on-possible-sanctions-for-myanmar-military-controlled-oil-and-gas-firm-moge/
woven ingot
https://t.me/khitthitnews/164278
"At around 2:00 a.m. on March 1st, the Yangon Division PKAAF (Diving Special Forces) carried out a mission to detonate the Jet A1 aircraft fueling MV ship that was docked at the military's Myanmar Economic Corporation (MEC) Hiitan port in the Yangon River and waiting to unload fuel. A PKAFA official from Yangon region confirmed it."
weary pilot
Twitter
weary pilot
While denying that the military had ceded any authority over territory or border trade, a spokesperson said that military officials were again at the negotiating table with powerful ethnic armed organisations in China
https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/myanmar-junta-acknowledges-follow-up-meeting-on-ceasefire-with-brotherhood-alliance/
weary pilot
Twitter
woven ingot
Courage on another level! Such marches occur daily!
weary pilot
AA gains control of Yanbye (Ramree) in central Arakan (Rakhine) State
https://myanmar-now.org/mm/news/50039/ (Burmese)
Also check https://www.facebook.com/share/p/ScB2PieGMaUdE5km/ (Myanmar Now)
weary pilot
Tatmadaw kills one villager and burns 14 houses in Htoma, Kale Township, Sagaing Region
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/R3rhH5YGwfybTGMt/ (Khit Thit)
weary pilot
weary pilot
weary pilot
PTT (Thailand) to continue operations of two offshore oil rigs off the coast of Myanmar
https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid0x3eHpaLQTS3iz2fL3XGnTTvxtph1M92Xtfuj4ErrmfDu3RGh9bci5jfRKXdFaWQZl&id=100064582638283
weary pilot
Despite many people asking to join people’s defence forces (PDFs) to avoid being conscripted by the junta some PDFs are unable to accept new recruits because they cannot afford it.
Following the announcement of the Conscription Law on 10 February more than 50 young men and women reached out to the Tada-U Township PDF asking to join, but the PDF was unable to take them all.
https://eng.mizzima.com/2024/03/15/8061
weary pilot
weary pilot
Karen Rivers Watch statement on junta dam construction on Salween River: https://eng.mizzima.com/2024/03/16/8091
weary pilot
AA controls Yathedaung Township, Arakan (Rakhine) State
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/uN1bJnouXczmEHeh/ (Myanmar Now)
weary pilot
weary pilot
weary pilot
weary pilot
Shadow MOD reports rebel attack against the Tatmadaw headquarters (Naypyidaw’s Military Zone) and Alar/Aye Lar Airbase (must be near or at Naypyidaw International Airport) using drones
https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02UtBuL77rPoWoCnGr2NqDWQWLdwkD79ZHWjJ5K9cAZYCU6Dfg1wRbRa49LeqGkNbil&id=100070402003627
We will need the aerial shots of the attacked places and the attack footage
Drones used
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/XkyFG3uWrgLea56o/ (Khit Thit)
weary pilot
Shadow MOD reports rebel attack against the Tatmadaw headquarters (Naypyidaw’s M...
Aye Lar airbase is beside the International Airport
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/nRTrfHmsfPx2Bqpo/ (The Irrawaddy)
Below the bombs is the northwest corner of the runway
Military claims to have shot the drones down (7 entered)
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/RVVWwLE1WGTY4GWQ/ (Khit Thit)
2 soldiers killed, 15 others wounded in the airbase assault
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/vzX691ZqcRa5iC4R/ (Khit Thit)
weary pilot
Shadow MOD reports rebel attack against the Tatmadaw headquarters (Naypyidaw’s M...
Targets in the illustration below
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/Mqripn8bdW3E4owJ/ (Myanmar Now)
weary pilot
Aye Lar airbase is beside the International Airport
<https://www.facebook.com/s...
Footages of drones used by the Shar Htoo Waw’s KLOUD Drone Team (per NUG MOD report) featured in the report of The Irrawaddy
https://youtube.com/watch?v=xifshxZz3-A
weary pilot
KNU takes control of Lay Kay Kaw Myothit Town in Myawaddy Township, Kayin State
https://eng.mizzima.com/2024/04/04/8659
weary pilot
cobalt current
weary pilot
weary pilot
cobalt current
vivid compass
Hi, trying to locate this village: https://www.facebook.com/khitthitnews/posts/pfbid02cSLrd6ETjNKYLJA4EQq3zvcpGJTvCC1TobokfWbKgV8ar6e5mJ6A3W4w5JS5Kcybl A journalist from Myanmar said it's this: https://goo.gl/maps/U6yiBwCD3rVd87CJ6 it's pretty burned down and I can't tell. Also not sure if that is actually the village. If anyone wants to take a crack at it?
weary pilot
Would try checking Khit Thit’s post later. Will help
KNU just confirmed takeover of Myawaddy, after the last junta base, no. 275, ends defence this Thursday at 01:00.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/XYCdRBnSN5xaeUm8/ (The Irrawaddy)
weary pilot
Aye Lar airbase bombed again, this time by Brave Warriors of Myanmar and another resistance group.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/Gq64TDUmamL1wyJ3/ (The Irrawaddy)
weary pilot
KNU just confirmed takeover of Myawaddy, after the last junta base, no. 275, end...
Thai PM Srettha Thavisin rejects KNU reports and claimed the fighting in Myawaddy is still ongoing.
https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid0M8o1UU3L98yc53ja6NYA5DusvrZPqixrQaHCjoiZgLAdRxHvhYLxZ7M1F4ct77DAl&id=100063837923300 (Thai Enquirer)
daring birch
Thai PM Srettha Thavisin rejects KNU reports and claimed the fighting in Myawadd...
This would be the largest town liberated so far, right? It's metro area is of 150k per Wikipedia
weary pilot
I don’t know if Mrauk-U has a bigger population. I’m seeing varying numbers
daring birch
Mrauk-U is definitely larger but afaik it's not fully controlled and remains contested
Ah no, nevermind, it's actually far smaller, I always overestimate its size given its historical significance
And it seems to be fully liberated, yeah
weary pilot
Hi, trying to locate this village: https://www.facebook.com/khitthitnews/posts/p...
The translation of the headline was that the military forces raided Ratha village, Myingyan Township, shot 3 civilians dead and burned more than 250 houses down. First words in machine translation are “Myingyan Township, Ratha village”.
I typed ရသာရွာကို on Google Maps and nothing appeared; closest word that is also in Myingyan Township is ရသာကျေးရွာ, which also trashes to “Ratha village”
Its location is 8 miles from Kyauk Kone, 8 miles from Nabuaing, 9.4 miles from Okshitkon, 11.1 miles from Talokmyo, and 16.6 miles from Myingyan city, all inside the township.
Location is https://www.google.com/maps/place/ရသာကျေးရွာ/@21.6320718,95.4731422,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x30ca5de1c277f575:0x3b8389df4becc434!8m2!3d21.6320668!4d95.4757171!16s%2Fg%2F11txy01hc4?entry=ttu
daring birch
Can you please send me the footage from the facebook group? Apparently I have no access to it
weary pilot
Can you please send me the footage from the facebook group? Apparently I have no...
Would need to dig deep in the page to gain another link for the post. (Edits to DM it)
But I visited the link Pooja gave, through desktop. Also logged in on Facebook that time.
weary pilot
Would need to dig deep in the page to gain another link for the post. (Edits to ...
I just don’t know if the photos are pixelated if clicked. Didn’t attempt to.
Or @daring birch can I DM the link to you instead? Looks inappropriate 😩
daring birch
Yes, DM it if it's too inappropriate
weary pilot
Yes, DM it if it's too inappropriate
Sent
Still doesn’t work apparently. I’ll only show the post caption:
For everyone’s reference (mentions of rape and torture):
မြင်းခြံမြိုနယ်၊ ရသာရွာကို စစ်တပ်က စစ်ကြောငထ ဝင်ရောက်ပြီး ပြည်သူ ၃ ဦးကို ပစ်သတ်ကာ နေအမ ၂၅၀ ကျောကု မီးရှိုဖျက်ဆီး
vivid compass
The translation of the headline was that the military forces raided _Ratha villa...
Google translate hasn't been super accurate with Burmese and from my limited understanding, names can change depending on the dialect. But thank you I'll check it out
There's also a video of the damage: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_EcAn2YV1A
daring birch
The translation of the headline was that the military forces raided _Ratha villa...
GPT-4 transcribes it as Yethar village, Myingyan Township
FIRMS show fires on villages for the 8th here https://firms.modaps.eosdis.nasa.gov/map/#d:2024-04-08;@95.45,21.62,14.00z
vivid compass
GPT-4 transcribes it as Yethar village, Myingyan Township
Thanks, those are the two villages pointed out by the journalist I spoke with and @weary pilot
tired lichen
FIRMS show fires on villages for the 8th here https://firms.modaps.eosdis.nasa.g...
Good one. I was looking at the school, since that was mentioned and there are some flat roofs in the temple complex (?) north of it.
Almost everything seems to have pitched roofs but in FB pictures 9 and 11 there are buildings with flat ones.
Size seems to be in the 500 house ballpark.
weary pilot
Win Myint, Suu Kyi reported to be moved to house arrest: sources to Mizzima (https://www.facebook.com/share/p/gN197d8mhHbS6wec/)
The Irrawaddy cites hot season temperatures for the transfer (https://www.facebook.com/share/p/gWrYWfhY38txXMUv/)
weary pilot
Win Myint, Suu Kyi reported to be moved to house arrest: sources to Mizzima (<ht...
Like the report by The Irrawaddy, Myanmar Now’s report fails to indicate Suu Kyi’s whereabouts because authorities do not disclose these.
https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/myanmar-junta-announces-mass-amnesty-moves-suu-kyi-to-unknown-location/
daring birch
That's outrageous, good catch
weary pilot
Where did Srettha get the info?
https://twitter.com/Thavisin/status/1780599872544288829
Twitter
daring birch
I've heard that information as well, but idk of the primary source
So I'd just treat it as a rumour
weary pilot
daring birch
NYTimes did a lengthy article on the current situation of the Burmese Civil War https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/20/world/asia/myanmar-war-rebels.html
harsh sigil
Here's the NYT map of the situation
daring birch
Seems the battle of Myawaddy is not over, the Junta seems to be using Russian tactics in an attempt to retake it
daring birch
https://www.bangkokpost.com/world/2781365/myanmar-rebel-group-withdraws-from-bor...
This information appears to be wrong
cobalt current
Twitter
Sad but evident in tons of Arakan Army press releases. They refuse to refer to Rohingya by anything other than "Bengali Muslims." Some of these nationalist opposition are extremely unsavory
weary pilot
Would go contrary to NUG’s integration plans. Its deputy rights minister is a a Rohingya.
weary pilot
“Local volunteers who had been supporting people displaced by fighting in the border trade hub say that ‘both countries’ decided on the return of 3,000 recent refugees from two makeshift camps”
https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/myawaddy-refugees-sent-back-to-myanmar-after-fleeing-to-thailand/
weary pilot
“Two people were killed and many civilians wounded in Mindat Township, Chin State on Thursday night when a junta fighter jet bombed a hospital in the Won Ma Thuu area, said Chin Defense Force (Mindat).”
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/G6ja3EA79QBigkhX/ (The Irrawaddy)
teal talon
I haven't checked in in a few weeks but is the tenor still "rebels take new junta positions, junta forces terrorstrike civilians from a distance/the air in response"?
weary pilot
I haven't checked in in a few weeks but is the tenor still "rebels take new junt...
Less activity compared to past weeks, plus usual posts are major takeovers like towns. Junta position takeovers still happen though.
But,
“In the counteroffensive to retake the township, anti-junta forces say that the military used sophisticated drones and what they suspected to be chemical weapons.”
https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/kawkareik-residents-hesitate-to-return-home-after-military-recaptures-town/
daring birch
rigid stag
GeoConfirmed now has a map for Myanmar https://geoconfirmed.org/Myanmar
daring birch
There's some extremely graphic imagery with regards to a bombardment by a Junta jet fighter on a monastery in Magwe Saw Township.
daring birch
More graphic content coming from Myanmar, the Junta apparently executed 32 people in Sagaing region
Lots of war crimes that would be (rightfully) headlines in other parts of the world but are very much ignored in Burma
dapper sandal
Twitter
cobalt current
Sadly accountability is hard to come by in Myanmar
daring birch
The impunity and lack of attention, at least in the West, for this war is really frustrating 
weary pilot
dapper sandal
Twitter
dapper sandal
daring birch
https://www.cnn.com/2024/05/23/asia/myanmar-rohingya-arson-buthidaung-intl-hnk/i...
Thank you for covering this, Myanmar is suffering huge attrocities and they're being very overshadowed by other world events in the news cycle
weary pilot
https://eng.mizzima.com/2024/05/27/10273
Infographics also available at https://www.facebook.com/share/p/hkFpJdFe4A6BBLxn/
daring birch
CW: this tweet embeds a video where it is showing surgery on a leg on an injured woman
dapper sandal
Twitter
rigid stag
That's me! 😆
daring birch
If anyone missed it: https://www.bellingcat.com/news/rest-of-world/2024/06/05/myanmar-military-territorial-losses-war-conflict-human-rights-burma/
rigid stag
Great article by the BBC, Trigger warning because of some disturbing details: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cydd87gen62o
daring birch
Article from Nathan Ruser using open source techniques documenting war crimes against the Rohingya committed by the PDF aligned Arakan Army https://www.aspistrategist.org.au/they-left-a-trail-of-ash-decoding-the-arakan-armys-arson-attacks-in-the-rohingya-heartland/
cobalt current
in March, the military began an offensive along the highway to Loikaw from Hsihseng township about 65 kilometers (40 miles) to the north and, by the end of last month, some 500 junta troops had regained positions in the city’s Shan Pine, Mingalar and Dawtama Gyi wards, a resident told RFA Burmese.
“The junta forces have regained control of about 50% of the city, but not the entire area,” said the resident who spoke on condition of anonymity due to security concerns. “They have retaken their positions at their former regional command headquarters and No. 55 Division [outpost] … Their drones use advanced technology, and rebel forces could not defend against them effectively.”
jolly imp
From June 16, 2024
https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Myanmar-Crisis/Myanmar-revives-stalled-infrastructure-projects-with-China-and-Russia
archived: https://archive.is/20240616074038/https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Myanmar-Crisis/Myanmar-revives-stalled-infrastructure-projects-with-China-and-Russia
From May 23, 2024
https://apnews.com/article/china-myanmar-dam-project-irrawaddy-river-c921c8ad431e2730460fc46c84da87e4
dapper sandal
daring birch
PDF has secured a concrete factory just 25 km North of Mandalay https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/war-against-the-junta/mandalay-pdf-claims-victories-over-myanmar-junta.html
daring birch
daring birch
Just found about this org, they appear to be a Vietnam based org focused on rescuing people that have been poached into Myanmar, often with the purpose of forcing them to conduct scams https://x.com/BlueDragonVN
Twitter
daring birch
jolly imp
From July 16, 2024 https://reutersinstitute.politics.ox.ac.uk/under-juntas-shadow-rise-citizen-journalism-myanmar
cobalt current
Twitter
daring birch
Considering how important rubies are for the Burmese economy, especially for the Junta, this is a big blow
daring birch
I wasn't aware of this, so sharing it for anyone else who wasn't either:
An Oryx-style losses list for the Burmese Civil War https://www.armadarotta.com/2023/12/what-is-happening-in-myanmar.html?m=1
daring birch
It appears that the Junta is asking Russia for an intervention https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/desperate-myanmar-junta-seeks-russian-intervention-against-armed-resistance.html
cobalt current
There is now video of a brutal massacre of Rohingya near Maungdaw in Myanmar. Most people are blaming the Arakan Army again, claiming that they killed civilians with artillery or other long range weapons.
NWS images linked in the tweet https://x.com/BobRae48/status/1820915993150947766
daring birch
daring birch
This event is still requiring verification, there is a call by investigators for aid. Just be aware that the event described is extremely graphic, so if someone here feels motivated to aid, keep that in mind
Twitter
Twitter
daring birch
Graphic content warning, showing dead bodies and blood
11 civilians were killed after alleged Junta shelling in Monywa, Sagaing
||https://x.com/IrrawaddyNews/status/1823584248437334511||
fathom schooner
Twitter
daring birch
Rebels seem to have liberated Hsipaw: https://fixvx.com/Asia_Intel/status/1823726428556550524
Source in replies
daring birch
dapper sandal
jolly imp
from August 21, 2024
https://www.frontiermyanmar.net/en/dont-say-cholera-cover-up-in-yangon/
dapper sandal
sullen lantern
Twitter
daring birch
I shared here a very elaborate yet fake "OSINT investigation" that aims to deny crimes against the Rohingya by the Arakan Army #disinfo-and-propaganda message
daring birch
Not graphic, but still potentially distressing as there's people crying, bombing and shooting
No location known, afaik
daring birch
daring birch
Reports of instances of abuses by PDF soldiers in recently captured territory in Sagaing https://thediplomat.com/2024/09/anarchy-in-anyar-a-messy-revolution-in-myanmars-central-dry-zone/
vivid compass
Not graphic, but still potentially distressing as there's people crying, bombing...
tried to locate this, no luck yet
daring birch
That's definitely a needle in a haystack
wheat mauve
tried to locate this, no luck yet
The thing over the road there is at 19.66513, 97.11066 and the target of the bombing is at 19.66513, 97.11011, which according to this ||https://mpapress.com/pressphoto/52244/|| (includes photos which show a small amount of blood, bombing aftermath) was a Karenni State Police office.
I think I also found where it was originally uploaded, and can share it with you but don't want to share it publicly since it was taken down
vivid compass
The thing over the road there is at 19.66513, 97.11066 and the target of the bom...
good work! i can't open that link for some reason
vivid compass
I think I also found where it was originally uploaded, and can share it with you...
sure, DM me please? thanks!
wheat mauve
good work! i can't open that link for some reason
Hmmm, it's not working for me either now, but here's a Facebook post about it from the same news site ||https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1955344454908353||
daring birch
Source in reply https://fixvx.com/MyanmarWitness/status/1838536914346856726
sharp frigate
daring birch
Many accounts of new terrible war crimes committed by the Junta. Spoiler tagging the link to a news article due to graphic descriptions (no footage, but be aware if you find some while researching this) || https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/as-the-world-looks-away-myanmars-junta-launches-another-wave-of-revenge-atrocities.html ||
sharp frigate
daring birch
https://bsky.app/profile/thomasvlinge.bsky.social/post/3lba3mlotbk2q
Original source: https://x.com/Myanmar_Now/status/1858439962196328546
Twitter
daring birch
daring birch
Write up from Nathan Ruser on the advancements of the Arakan Army through the Rakhine State after a year of offensive https://geospatialdigest.substack.com/p/november-update-on-arakan-state
daring birch
Prosecutor at ICC seeks an arrest warrant against the Junta's top leader (and de facto the country's ruler) Min Aung Hlang
jolly imp
exotic bronze
https://apnews.com/article/myanmar-rebels-ceasefire-military-china-7c5fab6d2a184...
I'd like to think the next ASEAN meeting will be spicy but somehow I doubt it very much.
Quite surprised how little coverage the Chinese moves have been getting.
exotic bronze
sharp frigate
https://www.rfa.org/english/opinions/2024/11/21/opinion-myanmar-china-private-mi...
"Between the high level visits of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to Naypyidaw and Myanmar junta leader Min Aung Hlaing’s trip to China, the neighbors struck one piece of business – a deal to allow the deployment of Chinese private military corporations (PMCs) to operate within Myanmar. "
jolly imp
daring birch
This is very useful: https://geospatialdigest.substack.com/p/tracking-recent-free-satellite-imagery
Nathan Ruser has been manually adding recent imagery of Burma to Google Earth as this was removed by Google, and here it is available for everyone
vivid compass
jolly imp
sharp frigate
jolly imp
https://apnews.com/article/myanmar-investigation-julie-bishop-china-621d0c62b201e8bfe5d8de0237cf9bd0
Letter itself from Justice for Myanmar: https://www.justiceformyanmar.org/press-releases/un-should-investigate-conflicts-of-interest-over-un-special-envoy-on-myanmars-business-activities-and-links-to-china
sharp frigate
daring birch
For the earthquake: 👉 #1355158595800404221
sharp frigate
cobalt current
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daring birch
At least 17 children killed in the bombing of a school by the Junta in the town of Depayin, in Sagaing https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/myanmar-opposition-says-junta-airstrike-kills-17-school-children-2025-05-12/
daring birch
Tracking illegal mining near Pang War with open sources https://www.info-res.org/reports/unearthing-the-hidden-costs-myanmars-rare-earth-mining-boom/
jolly imp
sharp frigate
Cw gunshots, visually unharmed prisoners ||https://t.me/POPULARXFRONT/2055?single||
sharp frigate
sharp frigate
jolly imp
https://www.reuters.com/world/china/china-risks-global-heavy-rare-earth-supply-stop-myanmar-rebel-victory-2025-07-08/
archived: https://archive.ph/BvMAH
jolly imp
tired lichen
jolly imp
haughty cosmos
https://bsky.app/profile/warnoir.bsky.social/post/3m3f7mwkf222p
They have a website: https://aifmyanmar.noblogs.org/
jolly imp
jolly imp
https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/humanwave-attacks-drones-how-myanmars-junta-is-fighting-back-2025-12-16/
archived: https://archive.ph/Qc10a
Myanmar’s junta has threatened to prosecute anyone who opposes “government-approved” projects, a move widely seen as an attempt to silence resistance to controversial Chinese investments the regime is desperate to revive.
The warning, published in a junta gazette on December 16, comes as the military scrambles to reassure Beijing that its stalled projects—including those long rejected by the public—will be pushed forward at any cost.
jolly imp
Earlier this year in May 21, 2025
https://www.financeuncovered.org/stories/british-norwegian-and-danish-governments-back-internet-provider-in-military-run-myanmar-which-hosts-notorious-chinese-surveillance-system
jolly imp
Myanmar Junta’s Election Opens Amid Airstrikes and Sparse Turnout
jolly imp
Initial data indicates turnout plunged on Sunday compared with the 2020 election, even though the latter was held during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Low participation is also expected in the remaining rounds, on January 11 and January 25.
Among those who did turn out on Sunday, two groups dominated: military supporters and those coerced by fear.
Many voters voiced concern that refusing to participate would trigger repercussions, including scrutiny, harassment, or punishment by local authorities and junta forces. Many chose to stay away despite the risks, determined not to lend legitimacy to a fraudulent election.
For China, Myanmar’s elections are less about democracy than geography, analysts point out. The country is a vital corridor to the Indian Ocean, and Beijing has invested billions in highways, oil and gas pipelines, as well as a stalled deep-sea port in Rakhine State’s Kyaukphyu. These projects are central to China’s efforts to reduce reliance on the Strait of Malacca, a maritime chokepoint it fears could be blocked by the US.
China has also played both sides of Myanmar’s civil war—arming the junta while supplying rebel groups in northern Shan State near the border. Fearing that successful ethnic rebel offensives could eventually threaten Naypyitaw, the junta’s nerve center, Beijing has leaned on ethnic armed organizations to return captured territory to the military, ensuring the regime does not collapse entirely. Analysts point out this balancing act is not about peace, but about control.
While the junta is already proclaiming the first phase of its election a success, the vote will ultimately cover less than half the country, excluding areas controlled by resistance forces and the shadow National Unity Government. The outcome is expected to favor the military’s proxy party, the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), whose leader has made several trips to Beijing since the 2021 coup, holding talks with officials from the all-powerful Chinese Communist Party.
By backing the junta’s election, Beijing hopes to see the creation of a semi-legitimate regime that foreign governments may—however reluctantly—engage with, allowing stalled projects to resume.
The Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), the military proxy party, is rumoured to have benefitted from intimidation and pressure on civil servants, military personnel, and employees of large military-connected companies during advance voting in Myanmar’s 2010 elections.
In the current polls, USDP officials have claimed overwhelming victories in constituencies where results have been tallied so far. The party appears to have dominated even in Rakhine State, a culturally and historically distinct part of the country where locally well-known candidates stood for other parties.
jolly imp
https://www.reuters.com/world/china/thousands-marched-democracy-myanmar-some-died-prison-2026-01-31/
junior kayak
atomic wave
A reminder of today's stage talk for those who lurk here: https://discord.gg/EjgxVKgv?event=1507374229585264760
#/media/File:Myanmar_civil_war_(2021%E2%80%93present)_townships_map.svg){kind=link}
