The military junta declared a temporary ceasefire from April 2 to April 22 to facilitate accelerated recovery efforts in earthquake-affected areas and has since extended the ceasefire until April 30.
However, during the first three weeks of the declared ceasefire, the military continued to carry out airstrikes and ground offensives across the country, including in ethnic regions.
“Despite the ceasefire announcement, the military has carried on with ground operations, leading to direct clashes,” said Ko Yaw Na Than, a field officer with the Dawna-Tanintharyi Displaced Persons Support Group.
“If they truly want to cease hostilities, they must stop all ground operations and airstrikes. Saying one thing while doing another only guarantees more fighting. For instance, military columns are still advancing near the Thilawa Special Economic Zone in Nabule, Yebyu Township.”
Following the ceasefire declaration, the military launched relentless airstrikes day and night in earthquake-hit regions, including Mandalay, Sagaing, Kayin, Shan, Tanintharyi, Chin, and Rakhine states.
According to compiled data, over the three-week ceasefire period, airstrikes by the military killed more than 160 civilians and at least 30 resistance fighters.
Resistance groups have expressed deep skepticism about the sincerity of the military’s ceasefire claim and have remained on alert.
“The military columns are temporarily quiet, but their actions rarely match their words, so we must remain on guard,” said Ko Aye Min Tun, a commander of the People’s Defense Force (PDF) in Thaton District. “If a response is necessary, we will respond accordingly.”
Nai Nagar, spokesperson for the Mon State Revolutionary Force (MSRF), said the military has ignored the massive civilian death toll caused by the earthquake and is acting solely to protect its own power and interests.
“They have shown no regard for the thousands of lives lost. This reflects their true nature—irresponsible and inhumane,” said Nai Nagar. “When they speak of ‘defense,’ it’s not about protecting the people. It’s about safeguarding their power, military leadership, and the business interests of their cronies and families.”
To ensure effective humanitarian relief in earthquake-hit regions, the National Unity Government (NUG) has declared a nationwide two-week suspension of its military operations. Similarly, the Brotherhood Alliance of three ethnic armed groups has announced a month-long ceasefire throughout April to facilitate emergency response efforts.
Despite these declarations, the military has continued airstrikes in ethnic regions and earthquake-affected areas across the country.
