MYANMAR: A Myanmar rebel group has withdrawn its troops from a town along the Thai border following a counteroffensive by soldiers of the ruling junta from whom the resistance fighters had wrested the key trading post this month, an official said on Wednesday. The withdrawal marks a potential shift in dynamics and could have far-reaching implications for the security situation in the area.
The Karen National Union made a “temporary retreat” from the town of Myawaddy, a spokesperson said, after the return of junta soldiers to the vital strategic area that is a conduit for annual foreign trade of more than $1 billion.
“KNLA troops will … destroy the junta troops and their back-up troops who marched to Myawaddy,” said Saw Taw Nee, referring to the group’s armed wing, the Karen National Liberation Army, one of Myanmar’s oldest ethnic fighting forces.
He did not say what its next move would be, however.
Despite recent fighting, with rebels attempting to expel government troops, civilians fled in large numbers on Saturday. This escalation underscores the ongoing volatility in the region.
On Wednesday, Thailand said the fighting had eased and it hoped to re-open its border crossing as trade had been hit. It said most civilians had returned and 650 remained.
“The situation has improved significantly,” spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura told a briefing. “Nevertheless, we are closely monitoring the situation, which is highly uncertain and can change.”
Moreover, the withdrawal of troops by the Myanmar rebel group signals a possible shift towards de-escalation and dialogue. This move may open up opportunities for diplomatic initiatives and peace talks to address the root causes of conflict in the region. However, it also raises questions about the future trajectory of the conflict and the prospects for lasting peace and stability in Myanmar.
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