More and more news is coming out about youths being conscripted by the regime. At the same time, we’re seeing great victories from the AA in Rakhine and feeling relieved that the KIA and KNU are still standing strong.
The most important thing now is to help young people stay safe from the regime’s dangers. We can do this by supporting diaspora communities so they’re not deported and helping families inside the country who depend on these youths, whether by hiding them or offering financial support.
Min Aung Hlaing’s days are clearly numbered, and now’s the time to go all in—funding the armed resistance and protecting our youth. Read the highlights of the week below:
Internal Politics
- AA captured key military command in Ann Township, expanding control over Rakhine State
The Arakan Army (AA) announced on the morning of December 21 the successful capture of the Western Regional Command in Ann Township, Rakhine State, along with the arrest of key military leaders, including Deputy Regional Commander Brigadier General Thaung Htun, Regional Commander-in-Chief Brigadier General Kyaw Kyaw Than, and the Commander of the 15th Division Thurein Tun. At 1:40 PM on December 20, the AA confirmed full control over the last remaining areas of the Western Regional Command, marking the complete capture of Ann Township. This victory makes Ann Township the 14th area under full control of the Arakan People’s Revolutionary Government. The AA also controls two-thirds of Gwa Township and is expected to complete its capture soon. Following this, only three key towns remain under military control in Rakhine State: Sittwe, Kyaukphyu, and Man Aung. The AA emphasized that this success is not solely the result of their military efforts but also a product of widespread support from the Arakan people, collaboration with allied organizations, and assistance from unnamed international partners.
- The regime formed public security groups as tension rose in Ayeyarwady Region
The regime began forming public security groups in Ayeyarwady Region, near the border with Gwa Township in southern Rakhine State, in anticipation of a potential attack by the AA, according to local residents and the Information Special Force-Pathein Group, a local resistance organization. On December 19, a mandatory meeting was held at 1pm in Mae Zaligone Township, Ingapu Township, located in Hinthada District. Men over the age of 35 were summoned under the pretext of consulting and advising on public security measures, according to residents and resistance sources. These neighborhood-based public security teams are reportedly tasked with monitoring guest lists, overseeing entry and exit checkpoints, and providing local security oversight. This mobilization indicates growing concerns within the military council about the AA’s expanding territorial control and the potential spillover of conflict into Ayeyarwady Region, a strategically significant area for both commerce and military logistics.
- The NUG condemned the regime’s alleged use of chemical weapons
U Aung Myo Min, the Human Rights Minister of the National Unity Government (NUG), condemned the regime’s alleged use of chemical weapons, calling it a violation of international treaties and urging global accountability during a joint online press conference with the Karenni Interim Administrative Council (IEC) on December 20. He emphasized that Myanmar is a signatory to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), which was established in 1992 and signed by over 190 countries, including Myanmar in 2015. The NUG also called on international stakeholders and partner nations to cooperate in addressing these violations and to hold the military junta accountable for committing acts banned under international law. On December 7 and 8, the regime reportedly deployed drones armed with S-Phos 560 gas canisters in Moebye and surrounding areas. This attack caused chemical intoxication among Karen National Defense Force (KNDF) soldiers, according to KNDF No. 1 Strategic Commander Khun Htet Soe. Additionally, U Aung Myo Min revealed that the NUG Ministry of Human Rights has gathered substantial evidence pointing to the military council’s repeated use of chemical weapons in Karen State, Karenni State (Kayah), and Shan State since the military seized power in 2021.
- Mon armed groups to form a unified Mon Army and plan joint operations
Four Mon armed resistance groups announced plans to form a unified Mon army and commence joint military operations against the military council, following a military cooperation meeting held in a rebel-controlled area on December 18. The groups involved in this alliance are Mon State Liberation Army (MLA), Mon National Liberation Army (MNLA-AD), Mon State Defense Force (MSDF) and Mon State Revolutionary Army (MSRF). The unified Mon army will begin joint strategic military operations in Mon State and neighboring regions. However, Dr. Thiri Mon Chan, commander of the MSDF, noted that specific operational plans and locations remain confidential for security reasons. This development marks a significant step in consolidating the Mon resistance movement, enhancing their operational strength, and fostering greater coordination in their efforts against the military council.
International Affairs
- South Korea suspended NUG passport extensions for Myanmar citizens
The South Korean government announced on December 18 that the NUG Representative Office in South Korea will no longer process passport renewals or extensions for Myanmar citizens residing in the country. Since July 2023, the NUG Representative Office had been granting two-year passport extensions to CDM participants, individuals on temporary G1-99 visas, and those facing difficulties renewing passports through the regime. However, according to a source close to the NUG Representative Office in South Korea, these extensions were suspended in early November following concerns raised by South Korea’s Immigration Department. On November 9, the Myanmar Embassy in Seoul, controlled by the military council, announced that it would cancel and blacklist passports of Myanmar citizens attempting to illegally renew their documents through unofficial channels. There are currently over 70,000 Myanmar citizens residing in South Korea under bilateral labor agreements. Many of them rely on passport renewals and extensions to maintain their legal status and continue employment. The suspension of passport services by the NUG Representative Office places these individuals in a precarious position, as they may now have to rely on the military-controlled Myanmar Embassy for passport-related services—a process many are hesitant to undertake due to political concerns.
- WFP condemned misuse of humanitarian aid by the regime
The World Food Programme (WFP) condemned the misuse of its humanitarian aid after food bags bearing the WFP logo were discovered in a military council building used by border guards in northern Rakhine State. The WFP expressed its disapproval of the incident on December 18, emphasizing that the misuse of aid is unacceptable and harms those in urgent need of relief supplies. The WFP acknowledged the reports of the incident through media but stated that it was unable to confirm the details due to limited access to the affected area. According to Arakan Bay News (ABN), the bags of WFP rice were found inside Border Guard Police Station No. 5 in Maungdaw Township after it was fully captured by the Arakan Army (AA) on December 8. The report also claimed that the military council soldiers had been using the WFP rice bags as cover during covert operations.
- China urged KIO/KIA to end fighting with the regime
Representatives from the Chinese government, led by Wu Ken, a member of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), have once again urged the Kachin Independence Organization (KIO)/Kachin Independence Army (KIA) to end their fighting with the Myanmar regime. The request was made during a private meeting with KIO/KIA leaders, including General Nbang La, in Kunming, China, during the second week of December. A spokesperson for the KIO/KIA, Colonel Naw Bu, told Myanmar Now that the Chinese representatives had raised the issue of a ceasefire with the Myanmar military. However, despite the Chinese government’s calls for peace, the KIA has continued its military offensive against Bhamo, a key city near the Chinese border. Colonel Naw Bu confirmed that KIA forces are still actively attacking the city in their ongoing efforts to capture Bhamo.
- Thai and UWSA officials met over military bases near border
On December 18, Thai military officials and United Wa State Army (UWSA) representatives reportedly held a meeting to address the Thai military’s demand to remove nine UWSA military bases located near the Thai border in northern Shan State. The Thai military had first requested the removal of these bases in November because they were situated within Mae Hong Sar province in Thailand. However, by November 25, the bases had not been removed, prompting the Thai military to reinforce its presence along the border and issue another deadline of December 18 for their removal. UWSA liaison officer U Nyi Yang confirmed to Myanmar Now that the issue had been communicated to the Myanmar military council, and it remained a matter for the two governments to address. In the midst of these discussions, U Nyi Yang explained that on December 18, UWSA officials met with Thai military officers on the ground for informal talks aimed at fostering mutual understanding regarding the border issue.
Business Matters
- The regime’s central bank sold US$30 million to stabilize exchange rate
On December 18, the Central Bank of the military regime sold an additional US$30 million to stabilize the foreign exchange market, following a similar move earlier in the month. As of December 16, the bank had already sold over $109 million in efforts to manage the kyat’s value. Since the foreign exchange rate surged above 7,000 kyats per dollar in August, the central bank has been consistently injecting foreign currency into the market. This strategy has led to a gradual depreciation of the dollar, bringing its price down in recent weeks. As of December 18, the US dollar was trading between 4,390-4,490 kyats, showing a slight recovery after a previous low. On December 17, the dollar had been trading between 4,300-4,430 kyats before it experienced a mild rebound.
- Truck ban imposed in Pathein, disrupting transportation of good
Since December 21, trucks in Pathein have been prohibited from leaving the city, according to local drivers. A truck driver from Pathein told DVB that the number of truck checks had increased recently, and drivers were instructed not to cover their truck roofs. On the morning of December 21, drivers were informed that trucks would be towed if they attempted to leave, leading them to halt their shipments to Yangon. Locals have expressed concern that the truck ban could disrupt the transportation of goods, but drivers are uncertain about the exact reasons for the closure or how long it will last. In Rakhine State, the Arakan Army (AA) has launched an offensive on Gwe while the military council in Ayeyarwady Region has bolstered security. The AA recently seized the Beda checkpoint at the border between Ayeyarwady and Rakhine, prompting the military council to fortify defenses at Hsin Thaing Creek, as reported by residents of Ye Kyi Township.
- Goods export restrictions cause shortages in southern Chin State
Since November, the regime has imposed restrictions on the export of goods from Magway Region to townships in southern Chin State, leading to significant shortages of food and other essential goods. Locals reported on December 18 that the restrictions have affected several townships in Chin State, including Mindat, Matupi, Paletwa, and Kanpetlet. The scarcity of goods has intensified in the region, creating hardships for the local population. A resident from Kanpetlet Township shared with RFA that fuel prices have skyrocketed to 15,000 kyats per liter. He mentioned that the fighting in the area has led to efforts to cut off food supplies, although he clarified that this does not mean a complete blockade; goods can still come and go, but transporting them for sale has become difficult due to the restrictions. Prices for basic items, like eggs, have more than doubled, reaching over 1,000 kyats per dozen. In addition to the shortage of goods, locals are facing soaring transportation costs and increased prices, which are making daily life even more challenging.
Humanitarian Affairs
- Fighting in Ann caused surge in IDPs
The Humanitarian and Development Cooperation Office (HDCO) of the Arakan Army (AA) reported on December 20 that the number of displaced people has risen by tens of thousands due to ongoing clashes with the regime in Ann Township, Rakhine State, since last April. These people urgently need food, healthcare, shelter, and basic supplies, including cooking materials. Currently, the IDPs lack permanent shelter, living in temporary tents on vacant plots of land. The exact number of displaced people has not been disclosed. According to HDCO data, between November 11 of last year and December 5 of this year, 13 civilians were killed and 36 others injured as a result of the regime’s violence in Ann Township. The AA also announced on December 20 that it had captured the Western Command headquarters in Ann Township, gaining control of the city.
- WHO estimated 12.9 million people will need humanitarian healthcare by 2025
The World Health Organization (WHO) announced on December 19 that by 2025, 12.9 million people in Myanmar will require humanitarian health care assistance. The greatest need for health services is in Rakhine State, with additional areas requiring help including Sagaing Region, Kayah State, Tanintharyi Region, eastern Bago Region, and northern Shan State. The WHO report highlights that emergency health care needs are being exacerbated by damage to hospitals and clinics, attacks on health centers and staff, challenges in accessing household medicines, and a shortage of skilled health workers. Vulnerable groups, including women, children, the elderly, people with disabilities, and those with mental health conditions, face significant barriers in accessing care. The report further emphasizes that the high number of displaced people, unsafe drinking water, poor sanitation, and disruptions to regular health care systems are increasing the risk of disease transmission.
- Over 20000 displaced in three townships in Magway due to the regime’s attacks
On December 20, local residents reported that military incursions by the regime in Pakokku, Myaing, and Salin townships of Magway Region have led to civilian casualties and the displacement of approximately 20,000 people from about 35 villages. Fighting and arson attacks by the regime troops have forced residents of around 15 villages in Pakokku and Myaing townships, as well as about 20 villages in Salin township, to flee. In Salin Township alone, nearly 10,000 residents have been displaced since December 11. According to Ko Aung San, press officer for the Salin Public Defense Group, two civilians and a member of the public defense force have been killed in the fighting, which has been ongoing for over a week. Locals also reported that more than a hundred houses were destroyed when the regime troops raided and burned down Sankalay village in Salin Township on December 16. Additionally, approximately 10,000 people from villages in Pakokku and Myaing townships have been fleeing as the regime troops continue to raid the area.
Attacks on the Junta’s Lackeys & Assets
- Resistance forces destroyed military-linked Beer in Khin-U tsp, Sagaing Region
Local resistance forces in Khin-U Township, Sagaing Region, seized and destroyed military-produced Myanmar Beer and ANDAMAN GOLD brand beer during an inspection on December 14. The Khin-U PDF confiscated 190 cartons of Myanmar Beer, 4,560 bottles, and 37 cartons of ANDAMAN GOLD, valued at over 1.4 million kyats, along the Shwebo-Myitkyina road. The products, key revenue sources for the junta and its associates, were publicly destroyed, with the PDF urging citizens to boycott military-linked goods.
- Copper convoy belonged to Chinese Wanbao attacked in Sagaing Region
On December 19, resistance forces targeted a convoy carrying copper and related materials for the Wanbao Copper Project in Salingyi Township, Sagaing Region. The convoy, comprising over 60 vehicles with military escorts, was attacked with mines in Chaung U and Myin Mu Townships along the Monywa-Mandalay highway. Two vehicles were damaged in the operation, according to the Burma Liberation Democratic Front (BLDF) anti-mine unit.
- Military affairs security force major targeted in Yangon
Major Zayar Min of the regime’s Military Affairs Security Force (MASF) was attacked on December 22 in Mayangone Township, Yangon. He was shot three to four times near the Apollo Hotel on Central Road at approximately 2 p.m. while en route to a wedding. The Yangon Phoenix and Together Urban Force guerrilla groups claimed responsibility for the operation. A local resident said he was injured, but survived the attack.
Arbitrary Arrests, Killings & Violence
- Youth activists arrested in Yangon for protesting on Human Rights Day
The New Generation Youth Strike Committee (NGYSC) announced that two young protesters from Yangon were arrested after they protested on December 10, International Human Rights Day. Ko Yan Naung Kyi Win (25) and Ko Thet Htoo Zaw (21), members of the Shwe Pyi Thar Township protest group, were detained at a guesthouse in the township. They were later questioned at the local police station and charged under Section 505(a). An NGYSC official, said the two had courageously spoken out for the human rights denied in Myanmar.
- Over 120 men abducted for conscription in Mandalay Region
Mandalay residents reported that more than 120 young men were arrested for forced military service between December 1 and 15. The Mandalay Protest Force stated that 125 men were taken from seven townships, with most arrests in Pyi Gyi Ta Kun, Pathein Gyi, and Aung Myay Thar Zan. Local sources revealed that military forces conducted nighttime patrols and raided homes using guest lists to identify targets.
- Civilians killed during regime’s artillery attack on refugee vehicle from Rakhine State
On December 18, a vehicle carrying refugees from Gwe Township in Rakhine State was struck by artillery in Shaw Pyar village, Ayeyarwady Region. Eight people were killed, and four others were injured. Local residents confirmed the attack was carried out by military troops but said the victims’ identities remain unknown.
- NLD youth leader sentenced to 31 years in prison
Ko Zaw Zaw Moe, a youth leader of the National League for Democracy (NLD), was sentenced to 10 years in prison on December 18 under the Unlawful Carrying of Arms Act. This adds to a previous 21-year sentence for charges under multiple laws, bringing his total imprisonment to 31 years. Arrested in August 2021 in Sanchaung Township, Ko Zaw Zaw Moe is currently held in Insein Prison, according to his family.
- Civilians targeted in Shan State attacks
The Shan State Human Rights Commission (SCHR) reported that military airstrikes and artillery along the Muse-Mandalay railway killed 68 civilians and injured 136 in two months. These attacks, part of China’s Silk Road project, also destroyed 340 buildings, including schools and hospitals. Most targeted areas were under rebel control but not active conflict zones, according to SCHR.
Armed Resistance
- KIA seized militia camp near China border
On December 15, the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) captured a regime’s militia camp near the China-Myanmar border in Kawnglangphu Township, Putao District, Kachin State. According to Colonel Naw Bu, the KIA’s News and Information Officer, the camp, staffed by approximately 100 soldiers, was seized along with weapons and ammunition. However, details of the captured items remain unclear.
- KNU and allies captured strategic positions in Karen State
The Karen National Union (KNU) announced the capture of two strategic military camps—Point 913 and Artillery Company 311—in Hlaingbwe Township, Karen State, after three days of intense fighting ending on December 16. The operation involved multiple KNU units and allied forces, including commando and drone teams. Six regime soldiers were captured, and one 120mm mortar was seized by the KIA. Manerpaw, the contested area, lies on the Myanmar side of the Thaungyin River, bordering Thailand.
- Civilians killed amid fighting near Mandalay
Intense clashes erupted in Htanpin Kone village near Mandalay on December 19, with MDY-PDF attacking a military camp. In response, the junta’s military used airstrikes and artillery, killing three civilians in Mookan Thar Sha village. Fighting persisted through December 20, according to local sources.
- Mass surrender of regime troops reported in Chin State battles
The Chin New World Movement reported capturing most regime’s positions in Mindat and Falam townships, Chin State, as part of attacks initiated on November 9. Approximately 170 junta troops surrendered, including 45 police officers in Falam on November 12 and 123 soldiers and police in Mindat by December 15. Over 30 family members of military also joined the surrender. The captives are reportedly held in a secure location.
- Arakan Army captured Western Command Headquarters
On December 20, the Arakan Army (AA) took control of the junta’s Western Command headquarters in Ann Township, Rakhine State. The AA offensive, launched in late September, culminated in the capture of regional commanders and control over 13 of Rakhine State’s 17 townships. The victory marks the fall of the second military command, following the Brotherhood Alliance’s capture of the Northeastern Command in Lashio, Shan State, in August.
- Joint resistance forces overrun regime camps in Mon and Tanintharyi
The Dawna Battalion announced on December 20 that it captured two regime’s military camps—one near Mawkanin village in Ye Township, Mon State, and another in the Kanpauk area, Ye Phyu Township, Tanintharyi Region. The operation involved multiple resistance groups, including the New Mon State Party (NMSP-AD), Mon State Revolutionary Army (MSRF), and Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA). Two resistance members were killed in the clashes. The Ye Township camp was burned following its seizure.
Sources: Myanmar Now, RFA Burmese, Khit Thit, DVB, The Irrawaddy
