The city, Myawaddy, which is now held by rebels belonging to Karen ethnic group, is a hub for imports and exports, with $1 billion in commerce final 12 months.Its fall comes as resistance forces have seized dozens of cities and navy outposts in latest months in border areas close to China and Bangladesh.
Residents stood in strains for hours on the southeastern border with Thailand on Friday as they sought security within the Thai city of Mae Sot earlier than the junta launches its anticipated counteroffensive. Thai officers have mentioned they may take as many as 100,000 refugees.
Kyaw Zaw, a spokesperson for the Nationwide Unity Authorities, a shadow civilian govt shaped after the 2021 coup, mentioned the junta’s lack of Myawaddy was a major monetary setback and uncovered military’s rising vulnerabilities, dealing “a psychological blow.”
The Thai govt has expressed concern that the battle might disrupt commerce with Myanmar and that violence might spill over the border. Its overseas minister mentioned Friday that Thailand might act as a dealer to mediate the battle. nyt