Mizzima-Jan 6
The year 2025 looks set to be a crucial one for the Spring Revolutionary forces taking on Myanmar’s entrenched military junta. Despite the resilience displayed by the National Unity Government (NUG), the People’s Defense Forces (PDFs), and the allied ethnic armed organizations (EAOs), their path is fraught with obstacles that will test their metal. While the Myanmar military or Tatmadaw has been suffering a number of significant defeats at the hands of the opposition, they still have advanced weaponry and substantial resources that give them an edge. Backed by international allies Russia and China, the military benefits from arms, technology, and diplomatic protection. In contrast, resistance groups rely on smuggled weapons, improvised supplies and very limited outside support, often operating under constant threat of interception.
Although the NUG stands as the de facto civilian government-in-exile, unifying diverse groups remains a challenge, as does their limited “on-the-ground” presence. Historical mistrust and differing political goals among ethnic organizations hinder cohesive action. Some EAOs prioritize their autonomy over aligning with the NUG, while others maintain neutrality to preserve their positions in the ongoing conflict. While Western nations have voiced strong moral and political backing, tangible military aid remains limited. Despite talk of bringing in “humanitarian corridors”, neighboring countries Thailand and India prioritize regional stability and economic interests, often engaging with the junta despite its widespread human rights abuses. This geopolitical pragmatism leaves the resistance isolated and underfunded. Resistance groups depend on donations from the diaspora and sympathizers, but these resources are insufficient to match the junta’s control over lucrative industries and the main arms of the economy. The junta’s brutal repression has created a humanitarian crisis, displacing over 2 million people. Read more at: https://eng.mizzima.com/2025/01/06/18014#google_vignette
