Myanmar's Ethnic Groups Launch Unprecedented Armed Resistance, Threatening Junta's Rule

Fighting between Myanmar's military junta and ethnic armed groups has escalated since late October, with an offensive in the country's north exposing the junta's vulnerabilities. The UN has called for all sides to respect international law, as over 70 civilians have been killed and 200,000 displaced. The joint offensive, known as "Operation 1027," aims to crack down on criminal activities in the borderlands. The ethnic armed groups have seized towns, villages, and military outposts, dealing a significant blow to the junta. However, the Tatmadaw is expected to launch a counter-attack, and the situation remains volatile. China's influence could play a crucial role in either pressuring the groups or the junta to end the fighting.