Hi folks,
The news from Syria is inspiring. After decades of fighting, they’re finally close to toppling a dictator. It shows that even the worst regimes can fall if people don’t give up.
Here at home, the fight is heating up across the country. Despite China’s pressure and the pause in TNLA and MNDAA operations in Shan State, the resistance is still going strong. No matter what China thinks or what the regime says, we need this fight. Defeating the regime is the only way to rebuild our country and create a better system.
We urge everyone to step up and keep funding this armed resistance. Every bit of support counts.
Read the highlights of the week below and let’s keep pushing forward!
Internal Politics
- NUG PM cautioned against backing the regime’s election
During a cabinet meeting on December 3, National Unity Government (NUG) Prime Minister Mahn Win Khaing Than urged neighboring countries and the international community to reconsider supporting any election involving Myanmar’s military leadership. He warned that such support risks endorsing a leader facing potential criminal charges and arrest warrants. The remarks referred to an application by the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) seeking an arrest warrant for the coup leader Min Aung Hlaing over crimes committed against the Rohingya population. The prime minister further condemned the regime’s actions, declaring that any election under its rule—given its ongoing violence against the people—lacks legitimacy.
- The coup leader warned troops amid rising number of defectors
Coup leader Min Aung Hlaing urged his troops to remain steadfast in their convictions despite increasing defections and participation in the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) by some members. He delivered this warning at a cadet graduation ceremony on December 6 at the Pyin Oo Lwin Defense Services Academy in Mandalay. He cautioned against efforts to divide the military and undermine the military council, emphasizing the importance of unity among soldiers. Meanwhile, clashes continue between the regime and allied forces of the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) near villages around 20 miles from Pyin Oo Lwin. Reports from the NUG on October 31 revealed that 61 military personnel, including two majors, joined the CDM in Chin State’s Paletwa Township. Additionally, PDF forces in Karen State reported that nearly 30 soldiers from the Aung Zeya Brigade defected to the CDM along the Kawkareik-Myawaddy Asia Highway Road in the past eight months, highlighting the growing dissent within the military ranks.
- Military actions at heritage sites spark outcry by experts
The Central Military Command of the military is stationed within Mandalay Palace, a historic heritage site. In September, resistance forces targeted the Central Command with rocket attacks twice, but neither side disclosed details about potential damage. Archaeologist Ko Thu Aung criticized both the military and revolutionary forces for conducting operations at ancient cultural sites, emphasizing that such actions violate international laws, including provisions of the Geneva Convention. The regime’s activities extend beyond Mandalay Palace. Troops are stationed at Kawng Tong Fort in Bhamo and the World War II-era Japanese underground hospital in Innaw. Additionally, a 120-year-old Christian church in Chantha Village, Ye U Township, was burned down by the regime’s forces on January 15, 2023, further fueling concerns about the destruction of cultural and historical sites.
- Thingyan festival earns UNESCO recognition as intangible cultural heritage
The traditional Myanmar New Year festival, Thingyan, has been officially recognized as a World Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. The announcement, published by the regime-controlled The Global New Light of Myanmar on December 5, follows a decision made at the 19th World Conference on the Intangible Cultural Heritage in Asuncion, Paraguay, held from December 2 to 7. In March 2023, the regime submitted a proposal to UNESCO to include the Thingyan festival, a cherished tradition in Myanmar. Celebrated annually from April 12 to 16, Thingyan involves water-pouring rituals symbolizing the cleansing of past year’s impurities, marking a fresh start for the New Year. Thailand’s version of the festival, Maha Songkran, was similarly recognized by UNESCO on December 6, 2023. Thailand is now taking steps to register intellectual property rights for the Songkran festival, highlighting its cultural significance on a global stage.
International Affairs
- Thailand to address border tension linked to UWSA and growing refugee crisis
The Thai National Security, Border Affairs, and National Strategy Reform Committee plans to address growing border tensions involving the United Wa State Army (UWSA) during a meeting on December 13, according to the Bangkok Post. Committee chairman Rangsiman Rome, also the deputy leader of the People’s Party, voiced concerns about the UWSA’s presence near Thailand’s border, emphasizing its reputation for transnational crimes such as drug trafficking. He cited evidence of the group’s involvement in drug production and unacceptable cross-border incursions. Rangsiman highlighted that over two million refugees have fled to Thailand, which has capacity to host only about 100,000, leaving the country ill-equipped to handle the overwhelming influx. He warned that escalating violence in Myanmar will inevitably lead to further displacement, with Thailand bearing the brunt as a neighboring nation. He also noted that as a member of the United Nations Security Council, failing to adequately address the refugee situation could tarnish Thailand’s international reputation.
- The regime released detained Thai fishermen, fate of Myanmar crew unclear
The Thai Foreign Ministry announced on December 5 that four Thai fishermen detained in Myanmar waters on November 30 had been released, according to AFP. The Thai fishing boats were reportedly shot at and apprehended after entering about four miles into Myanmar’s waters. On December 2, the regime’s spokesperson Major General Zaw Min Tun confirmed that a Myanmar navy vessel had captured 27 Myanmar nationals and four Thai nationals during the incident. Thai Foreign Ministry spokesman Nikorndej Balankura stated that the regime repatriated the four Thai nationals to the Thai-Myanmar border. The Thai government had summoned the Myanmar ambassador to Thailand and dispatched its ambassador in Yangon to Nay Pyi Taw to secure the fishermen’s release. However, the status of the 27 Myanmar nationals detained by the military council remains unknown, with no information on their condition or plans for their release.
- China urged immediate ceasefire in northern Myanmar
China has called for an immediate halt to fighting in northern Myanmar and urged all parties to resolve their differences peacefully, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian stated on December 4. The Kokang’s Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) declared a ceasefire on December 3 and expressed willingness to engage in peace talks with the Myanmar military, with China acting as a mediator. Beijing commended the MNDAA’s positive steps toward dialogue. Lin emphasized the need for all sides to prioritize peace and stability, highlighting the importance of safeguarding China’s border security and ensuring the safety of Chinese citizens, businesses, and projects near the Myanmar border. Reaffirming China’s commitment to supporting the peace process in northern Myanmar, Lin stated that China would continue its efforts to facilitate dialogue and promote stability in the region.
- UN reaffirmed Amb U Kyaw Moe Tun as Myanmar rep
On December 6, the UN Credentials Committee reaffirmed Ambassador U Kyaw Moe Tun’s position as Myanmar’s Permanent Representative, rejecting the regime’s attempt to gain representation. Ambassador U Kyaw Moe Tun, appointed by the National League for Democracy (NLD) government, hailed the decision as a victory for the people. He said that this decision ensured that the regime cannot represent Myanmar at the UN, but a chance for the people’s voices to be heard internationally. He added that the decision bolsters efforts to demand global action against the military’s terrorism. Since the coup, U Kyaw Moe Tun has consistently stated that he represents the NLD government and the Committee of Representatives of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw (CRPH), not the military junta. At UN meetings, he frequently reports on the military council’s war crimes, urging the international community to cease supporting the junta, prosecute military leaders for war crimes, and respect the will of Myanmar’s people and revolutionary forces.
- Slovenia joined Gambia’s ICJ case against Myanmar
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) announced on December 4 that Slovenia has formally applied to join The Gambia’s case against Myanmar regarding the genocide of the Rohingya population. Slovenia’s application, submitted on November 29, 2024, invokes Article 63 of the ICJ Statute. Earlier this year, on July 2, the ICJ approved the participation of seven other nations in the case: Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the Maldives. With Slovenia’s addition, eight countries now back Gambia in prosecuting Myanmar for the alleged genocide.Gambia initiated the case in 2017 following the mass exodus of Rohingya refugees from Rakhine State, accusing Myanmar of violating the Genocide Convention.
Business Matters
- Fuel prices surged in Kachin State amid border clashes and import suspension
Fuel prices in Kachin State have soared following the Kachin Independence Army’s (KIA) takeover of all border crossings between Myanmar and China, leading to a suspension of fuel imports. In Myitkyina, the state capital, gasoline prices have surpassed 10,000 kyats per liter, while in Hpakant and Putao, prices have risen to over 20,000 kyats per liter. Locals report that the sharp increase in fuel prices is due to the suspension of imports from China and disruptions in the transport of fuel through Myanmar. One local source told RFA that fuel tankers from Mandalay to Sagaing have been unable to pass through conflict zones, causing delays in deliveries. While fuel is still available at major stores in Myitkyina, shortages are reported in Hpakant and Putao. The ongoing fighting has halted exports of goods to Kachin State, causing prices for fuel and other goods to double compared to last year.
- Rice traders struggle after Federation warned on price violations
Rice traders are facing challenges following an announcement from the Myanmar Rice Federation (MRF) on December 4, warning that action will be taken against those selling rice above the price set by the military council. A member of the Myanmar Rice Traders Association said that even wholesale traders, who supply rice to retail shops in neighborhoods and villages, are struggling. They are unable to buy rice at the government-mandated price in the external market, forcing them to make only a small profit. The MRF issued the statement after noticing advertisements and market sales of rice at higher prices, particularly during the Shwebo and Ayeyarwady paddy harvest seasons, when efforts to raise rice prices have been observed.
- SDB extends ICO Round 2 after reaching $10 million target
The second round of the “Homecoming Initial Coins Offering (ICO) Round 2” by Spring Development Bank (SDB) has reached its target of US$10 million, but the sale has been extended due to high demand from additional buyers, announced U Tin Tun Naing, Union Minister for Planning, Finance, and Investment. As of 3:30 pm on December 5, the ICO Round 2 had successfully hit the $10 million target. However, in response to requests from the public and the Spring Bees community despite technical difficulties, SDB’s Board of Directors decided to extend the sale until December 8. Shares are being sold in multiple currencies, including Myanmar kyats, Thai baht, Singapore dollars, Australian dollars, euros, Japanese yen, Korean won, British pounds, and Malaysian ringgit, making it easier for international investors to participate. In Round 1 of the ICO, shares worth US$11.84 million were sold in just 10 days, and dividends were paid out twice. In Round 2, purchases can be made through RM or by topping up a SDB account, offering more flexibility for buyers.
Humanitarian Affairs
- UNICEF warned that humanitarian crisis impacts millions of children in Myanmar
On December 5, UNICEF highlighted the worsening humanitarian crisis in Myanmar, where nearly 3.5 million people have been displaced by ongoing conflict. The UN agency warned that children and their families are in desperate need of life-saving assistance and emergency services, with a significant decline in access to these essential services, particularly for vulnerable children and women. UNICEF projected that by 2025, 19.9 million people, including 6.4 million children, will require humanitarian aid. The child mortality rate under five remains the highest in Southeast Asia, at 40 per 1,000, with outbreaks of severe diarrhea further threatening children’s health and survival. The economic situation in Myanmar has worsened, leading to a sharp decline in livelihood opportunities. UNICEF also reported that nearly 55 percent of children in Myanmar are now living in poverty, exacerbating the challenges they face.
- Telecommunications cut in Chin State and Sagaing Region
Locals reported on December 7 that telecommunications in Chin State and Sagaing Region have been severely disrupted, with most phone and internet services down, except for MPT, which is controlled by the regime. Since November 20, phone lines from Atom have been unavailable in townships across Chin State and Sagaing Region, including Kalay and Tamu townships. Ooredoo’s phone services also went down on the evening of December 5. In Chin State, where heavy fighting continues in at least three towns, telephone access has been lost in eight of the state’s townships, except for Hakha, where only MPT phone lines remain operational. A local resident said that the price of phone cards has surged to 30,000 kyats due to the limited availability of MPT lines, which are the only ones functioning in Kalay, Sagaing Region. With phone and internet services unavailable, residents are struggling to stay connected with family members, access information, and transfer money, further exacerbating the challenges of living in conflict-affected areas.
- Nearly 20,000 displaced in Kyun Hla, Sagaing
As of December 5, nearly 20,000 residents from 14 villages in Kyun Hla Township, Sagaing Region, remain displaced and unable to return to their homes, as the regime forces continue to encircle nearby villages, local residents and security sources told RFA. The regime forces, with a force of nearly 300 soldiers, have been clearing the area of Kukko Kone and surrounding villages since November 20. Villagers from areas such as Kukko Kone, Takone, Myinthar Oo, Hlut Taik, Ma Daung, Swe Hlwe, Taung Ya Seik, Nyaung Kone, Ma Kyi Kone, Letkhoppin, and Aung Chantha have been fleeing for safety. A local defense force member confirmed to RFA that the military council is preparing settlements in the Kukko Kone area. However, local residents, unable to return home for more than two weeks, are facing severe food shortages and struggling with a lack of livelihood opportunities.
- Fighting in Bhamo trapped 80,000 people and civilian casualties reported
Fierce fighting between the KIA and the regime forces continues in Bhamo, Kachin State, leaving around 80,000 people trapped in the conflict, local residents told RFA on December 6. A local resident, who requested anonymity for security reasons, stated that although some residents have managed to flee, the majority are still trapped in the city, which has a population of over 100,000, as the fighting is still going on around the Military Operation Command 21. At least eight civilians have been killed in urban areas and surrounding villages due to heavy artillery and airstrikes by the military council. Residents are also facing communication challenges, as both telephone and internet lines have been cut off, further isolating the population.
Attacks on the Junta’s Lackeys & Assets
- Ward administrator and son shot dead in Paungde tsp, Bago Region
On December 3, at 8:30 p.m., newly appointed Sinlu Village Administrator Khin Htut and his son Aung Zaw Htut were shot and killed in Sinlu Village, Paungde Township, Bago Region. Khin Htut took over the role after the previous administrator resigned, reportedly declaring, “I don’t care about any PDF.” The 5th Battalion of the 3601st People’s Defense Forces (PPDF) in Pyay District claimed responsibility for the attack.
- Ward administrator office blasted in Mandalay
At around 6 p.m. on December 4, an explosion occurred at the ward administration office near 133rd and 56th streets in Pyigyidagun Township, Mandalay, as militiamen were gathered inside. While the explosion caused property damage, no injuries were reported. Two military vehicles arrived shortly after, blocking roads and searching passersby. Later, three more vehicles arrived at 9:30 p.m., leading to the arrests of several young people and the search of motorbikes. Gunfire continued late into the night. Military propaganda pages claimed two individuals on motorbikes threw improvised explosive devices at the office, though no casualties were reported. The office has been targeted multiple times, with a previous attack on October 20 injuring two staff members and damaging two vehicles.
- Rocket attack on Mawbi Air Base in Yangon
On December 6, at 10 p.m., the Mawbi Air Base in Hmawbi Township, Yangon Region, was struck by five rockets. Following the explosions, the military sealed off township entrances and exits, conducting inspections and arresting several young people on suspicion. A source from a Yangon revolutionary news agency confirmed the attack and stated that revolutionary forces involved are safe. An official statement from the attackers is expected soon.
- Nearly 30 soldiers defect to CDM from Aung Zeya column
The People’s Defense Forces (PDF) announced that nearly 30 soldiers from the Aung Zeya Military Council, which operates along the Kawkareik-Myawaddy New Asia Road in Karen State, have joined the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM). According to Major Myint Zaw, a military strategist with the 31st Military Region of the PDF Southern Region, this marks a significant trend, with around 30 defections from regime forces in the past eight months.
Arbitrary Arrests, Killings & Violence
- CDM Navy Officer died in Insein Prison
Ko Pyae Sone Oo, a 34-year-old navy officer sentenced to death for participating in the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) against the military coup, passed away on November 30 in Insein Prison, activists reported. Originally from the Thanlyin Naval Base in Yangon, he was among the first to join the CDM. His death followed six months of suffering from kidney disease and pneumonia, with inadequate medical care cited as a contributing factor. The PPNM group emphasized that a lack of proper medicine and doctors in prisons puts all inmates at risk. Ko Pyae Sone Oo was buried on December 2 in Yangon.
- One died during attacks on Monks in Karenni State
On November 30, monks traveling from Loi Lin Lay in Kayah State were ambushed, leaving one monk dead and two individuals injured. The group was traveling by car from Htee Se Kha village to Se Saeng when the attack occurred. The military accused the Karenni National Defense Force (KNDF) and People’s Defense Force (PDF) of the attack, but KNDF Deputy Commander-in-Chief Ma Wi refuted the claims. He stated that the area was under military control, with influence from the Pa-O National Organization (PNO) militia.
- Airstrike killed 10 people in Kyaukme, Shan State
On November 30, a military plane bombed the Ingyintaung neighborhood in Kyaukme town, northern Shan State. The attack caused a massive explosion, killing 10 people and injuring around 20, according to the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA).
Six bodies—four women and two men—were recovered and buried the following day. Residents continue searching for other victims as the town remains deserted.
- ARSA killed and abducted villagers in Buthidaung tsp, Rakhine State
On December 4, the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) raided Sinswe Ya village in Buthidaung Township, killing a 17-year-old woman and abducting three villagers. The attackers also burned down five houses. The Arakan Army (AA) arrived too late to prevent the attack and is now pursuing the ARSA group. ARSA and other armed groups have been reported to carry out similar attacks in Maungdaw and Buthidaung Townships.
- Regime’s drone attack on IDP camp killed three including a child in Pekhon tsp, Shan State
A drone attack on Inlar Kwin refugee camp in Pekhon Township on December 4 killed three people, including a child, and injured three others, according to the Karen National Defense Force (KNDF). The attack reportedly targeted the camp directly, despite no fighting in the area. Victims included a child and his mother, while another man was burned to death.
- Former political prisoner monk faces new charges
Sayadaw U Pyinnya Zawta, a former political prisoner and US citizen, was sent to Insein Prison after appearing in court on December 5. He faces three charges, including a life sentence under the Counter-Terrorism Act, though specific allegations remain unclear. The monk, who played a leading role in the 2007 Saffron Movement and opposed the government in 1990, was arrested by plainclothes officers in Yangon on November 13. In his 60s and suffering from diabetes, his health condition raises concerns among supporters.
Armed Resistance
- CNA and CDF captured four regime stations in Chin State
On November 30, the Chin National Army (CNA) and the Chin Regional Defense Force (CDF) captured four regime stations located between Hakha and Thantlang in Chin State. According to the Chin regional media outlet Voice of Chinland (VOC), the camps captured included Thi Myit, Umpu Puaknak, Nawn Thlawk Bo, and Ruavazung. During the operation, codenamed Jericho, 16 regime soldiers were killed, and 19 others, including a battalion commander, were captured. The joint CNA-CDF forces also seized 52 weapons and a large amount of ammunition. The Jericho operation began in the third week of November and continues to target regime strongholds in the region.
- KNU captured two military bases in November in Phapun, Karen State
The Karen National Union (KNU) announced that its 5th Brigade had captured the KNU’s Kuseik and Ma Htaw military bases in Phapun (Mutaw) district in November. The KNU said that the Ma Htaw military base was captured by the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and the People’s Defense Forces (PDF) on November 22, but did not provide further details about the capture of the Kuseik base. Thai-Myanmar border-based media reported that the Kuseik base was captured on November 9. At least 43 clashes took place between the KNU and KNLA forces in November, with 88 people killed, including a battalion commander and deputy battalion commander, on the KNU side. During the clashes, the junta provided air support and bombed civilian villages from the air, injuring one civilian.
- AA and PRA ambushed military convoy in Rakhine-Magway Region
On December 4, the Arakan Army (AA)’s allied group, the People’s Revolutionary Alliance (PRA), ambushed a military convoy transporting supplies near Padan town on the Rakhine-Magway border. The convoy, comprising three vehicles with an estimated 50 personnel, was intercepted with landmines on the Ann-Padan road between Suntat and Lintat villages. Two vehicles were destroyed after nearly 10 minutes of fighting, leaving at least nine soldiers dead. The ambush occurred 45 miles from Ann town in Rakhine State, where the AA is conducting a major offensive, and 25 miles from Padan town in Magway Region, a regime stronghold.
- KIA launched coordinated attacks in Bhamo and Mansi, Kachin State
Since December 4, the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and allied forces have launched simultaneous attacks on military bases in Bhamo and Mansi townships, according to local sources. The KIA has reportedly captured several regime positions in Bhamo, where its Operation Command No. 21 is based. In Mansi, the KIA and its allies targeted the junta’s 319th and 601st Infantry Battalions, forcing many residents to flee the area. Fighting in both townships is ongoing, with no reports yet on the total number of casualties or the extent of territorial gains.
- PLA withdrew from camps in Twin Nge village, Mandalay Region
The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) reported on December 5 that it had withdrawn from some of its camps in Twin Nge village, Mandalay Region, following intense regime ground and air attacks. Twin Nge is strategically located at the intersection of two critical routes: the Mandalay-Moe Meik Road, which links Mandalay Region to northern Shan State, and the Mandalay-Myitkyina Road, connecting to Kachin State. Since August 17, the PLA had controlled Twin Nge, including its police station, and maintained a siege on the nearby No. (13) Military Training School. However, following the TNLA’s announcement on November 25 of readiness for peace talks, the PLA faced increased isolation and intense assaults by the regime. Despite withdrawing from some camps, PLA forces remain active in the area.
- AA captured additional military bases in Ann tsp, Rakhine State
On December 6, the Arakan Army (AA) announced the capture of 10 more military units in Ann Township, Rakhine State. The bases taken include nine battalions, such as the 371st and 372nd Infantry Battalions, the 956th Construction Engineer Company, the Electrical Works Company, and the 926th Logistics Company. Bases both inside and outside the airport were also seized. This latest offensive follows the capture of eight battalions on November 13. The AA continues to push to capture the remaining 30 regime-controlled facilities, including the Western Command Headquarters, barracks, and other strategic bases.
Sources: Myanmar Now, Khit Thit Media, RFA Burmese, DVB, The Irrawaddy
