A Myanmar rebel group has withdrawn its troops from a town along the Thai border following a counteroffensive by soldiers of the ruling junta, from whom the resistance fighters had recently seized control of the key trading post. According to a spokesperson, the Myanmar rebel group Karen National Union (KNU) made a “temporary retreat” from the town of Myawaddy after the return of junta soldiers to the strategically vital area, which facilitates annual foreign trade of more than $1 billion.
“KNLA troops will … destroy the junta troops and their back-up troops who marched to Myawaddy,” said Saw Taw Nee, referring to the group’s armed wing, the Karen National Liberation Army, one of Myanmar’s oldest ethnic fighting forces. However, he did not disclose their next move. Recent fighting in Myawaddy, including clashes as recent as Saturday, led to the evacuation of 3,000 civilians in a single day as rebels sought to dislodge stranded Myanmar government troops holed up at a border bridge crossing.
As of Wednesday, Thailand reported that the intensity of the fighting had subsided, expressing hopes to reopen its border crossing, which had been impacted by the conflict. A Thai spokesperson, Nikorndej Balankura, noted that while most civilians had returned, 650 remained in the area. Despite the improved situation, he emphasized the ongoing uncertainty and the need for close monitoring.
Thailand has received reports indicating that negotiations may be commencing between rival groups on the Myanmar side, although specifics were not provided. Additionally, Thailand has proposed to Laos, the chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the prospect of hosting a meeting aimed at addressing the crisis in Myanmar.
