Volatile Developments Grip Myanmar-Thai Border Region.
The fortunes of war along Myanmar’s border with Thailand have changed rapidly in recent times. After losing control of their Myawaddy base —a key border crossing—two weeks ago, soldiers loyal to the military regime have regained it.
However, the situation on the ground remains complex. The Karen National Union’s (KNU) capture of military sites near Myawaddy initially seemed significant. As Myanmar’s longest-running insurgent group, controlling the town was unprecedented for the KNU.
But reasons for restraint were present. Other powerful Karen militias, like the Karen National Army (KNA), complicate responses. Once allied to the junta, the KNA remains influential under leader Saw Chit Thu despite cutting ties in January.
As fighting intensified last weekend with airstrikes impacting civilians, the KNU withdrew partly to limit harm. In response, the regime is mounting counter-attacks near Kawkareik town through reinforced road columns.
Balancing local interests amid this maze of ethnic armies, warlords, and pro-democracy forces strains the KNU. Cooperation with Thai authorities, who’ve discouraged battles for Myawaddy, adds further layers.
With the livelihoods of 700,000 people affected since the coup, finding political solutions remains distant as violence rises. This turbulent frontier area will continue shaping Myanmar’s uncertain post-coup trajectory.
