Myanmar's Military Faces Unprecedented Resistance Three Years After Coup

Three years after a military coup, Myanmar's ruling junta is grappling with a significant loss of control over much of the country. Thousands have been killed and many more injured, including soldiers in Karenni state, as resistance against the military's troops intensifies.

Karenni state, in eastern Myanmar, has become a focal point for the insurgency. The town of Demoso has transformed into a hub of resistance, with new shops and cafes emerging and a palpable sense of revolutionary fervor among the population. Many young people, who experienced a brief period of democratic freedom, have left cities like Yangon to join the insurgency in the countryside.

The ongoing conflict in Myanmar has significant implications for regional stability and human rights. If the military junta is unable to regain control, it could lead to a prolonged period of instability and violence, with potential consequences for neighboring countries and the global community.

The resistance has faced severe retaliation from the military, including regular bombings. Businesses like the Yangon Vibes bar in Demoso take precautions to avoid detection by the military's drones and war planes. Despite the violence and arrests, the resistance fighters remain undeterred. Rapper Novem Thu, a prominent figure in the movement, stated, 'There is only Plan A, destroying the military. There is no Plan B.'

In Karenni state, former army captain Nay Myo Zin has defected to the resistance, leading a group of young fighters. He has made appeals to soldiers in nearby army bases to switch sides. Despite being fired upon, Nay Myo Zin continues his efforts, shouting through a loudspeaker, 'Ceasefire! Ceasefire!'

The conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths, including many children, and approximately 2.5 million people have been displaced. The military's response has included bombing civilians, schools, and churches from warplanes, while the resistance lacks similar military capabilities.

The situation in Myanmar remains dire, with the resistance making rapid advances in recent months. Estimates suggest that between half and two-thirds of the country is now under the control of insurgent forces. The struggle for control continues, with no clear resolution in sight.

As the conflict persists, the determination of the resistance fighters and the growing support from defectors like Nay Myo Zin highlight the ongoing challenge faced by Myanmar's military junta. The future of the country hangs in the balance as both sides continue to vie for control.

Key Takeaways

• Myanmar's military junta has lost control over much of the country 3 years after the coup.
• Karenni state has become a hub of resistance against the military's troops.
• The conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and 2.5 million displaced people.
• Between half and two-thirds of the country is now under insurgent control.
• The resistance fighters remain undeterred despite severe retaliation from the military.