Hold Your Fire!

What Threat Does the Rebel Offensive in Myanmar Pose to the Junta?

15 snips
Nov 24, 2023
In this enlightening conversation, Richard Horsey, a Crisis Group analyst and Myanmar expert, dives into the recent offensive by the Three Brotherhood Alliance—featuring three ethnic armed groups making strides against Myanmar's military. He unpacks the intricate motives behind the offensive, including economic interests tied to illicit activities and border dynamics with China. Horsey discusses the formation and goals of these ethnic groups, the humanitarian crises unfolding, and the junta’s refusal to engage in talks, painting a complex picture of ongoing turmoil in Myanmar.
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INSIGHT

Rapid Offensive Revealed Military Weakness

  • The Three Brotherhood Alliance rapidly seized towns and military bases in northern Shan State, capturing heavy weapons and cutting China trade routes.
  • Their success exposed a surprising weakness in the Myanmar military and boosted nationwide resistance morale.
INSIGHT

Kokang Goals Mix Local Gains With National Rhetoric

  • The MNDAA aims to retake the Kokang self-administered zone and presents the offensive as part of a broader anti-coup cause.
  • That political framing has inspired resistance forces even if MNDAA motives are partly local and economic.
INSIGHT

Border Access Is Central For TNLA Strategy

  • The TNLA seeks to consolidate Ta'ang homelands and link them to the Chinese border for political and economic sustainability.
  • Border access matters more than ethnic purity for their long-term viability.
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