The Karen National Union (KNU) has reported that the military junta’s control over territories for crushing ethnic armed groups is narrowing, according to KNU spokesperson Padoh Saw Taw Nee.
As the junta continues its offensive against ethnic armed organizations, Padoh Saw Taw Nee noted that the military is struggling to maintain its grip, particularly after suffering setbacks in northern Shan State. The junta has shifted its focus to the southern regions in an attempt to salvage its position.
“They are trying to keep up appearances, but after facing significant losses in the north, they are now turning their attention to the south. Despite their efforts, they are encountering many obstacles. For instance, the Aung Zeya military column can no longer even make its presence known publicly, and the only action left for them is to terrorize villages with heavy artillery. The more they harm civilians, the greater their losses,” said Padoh Saw Taw Nee.
Since early July, the junta has increased its military presence along the Mawlamyine-Ye-Dawei Union Highway No. 8, attempting to regain control over areas dominated by resistance groups, including the KNU. However, the military has faced considerable challenges in these efforts, with Padoh Saw Taw Nee indicating that the situation remains unfavorable for the junta.
“The situation is clear—things are not going well for them. Their troops have pulled back along the entire length of Highway No. 8, and their supply routes are also significantly strained. Additionally, they are facing difficulties on multiple fronts, which is why they are resorting to these actions. We are doing everything we can to keep our territories strong and stable,” he added.
The junta has also deployed troops, including those from the Aung Zeya column recently withdrawn from Myawaddy, to launch offensives in the southern regions. According to local resistance forces, the junta’s attacks have increasingly targeted civilians as they struggle to maintain control.
In the first week of August, the junta leader, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, declared that the ongoing armed conflict could not be resolved through political means and vowed to continue efforts to restore stability across the country.
