Myanmar military is 'historically at a weak point,' says analyst: Video
Myanmar's military, known as the Tatmadaw, is facing unprecedented challenges and is considered to be at a historically weak point, according to analysts.
The military, which has long held a tight grip on the country, is now struggling to maintain control amidst growing opposition and significant losses on the battlefield.
Myanmar has a long history of military rule, civil conflict, and political instability. The Tatmadaw seized power in a coup in February 2021, overthrowing the democratically elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi.
In recent months, the Tatmadaw has suffered significant defeats at the hands of ethnic armed groups and the People's Defence Force (PDF), a coalition of pro-democracy fighters. These groups have launched coordinated attacks, capturing military posts and strategic locations, particularly in Shan State. The losses have been described as the most serious setbacks for the junta since the coup.
According to the Myanmar Country Director at the United States Institute of Peace, Jason Tower, "What's clear is that the Chinese side wants the Myanmar military to come to the table, it wants to bring the EAOs to the table to try to de-escalate, but the Myanmar military is refusing to do that. And so that actually plays to the hand of the EAOs that see that this military is historically at a weak point."
Reuters also adds that Myanmar's junta has admitted to losing communications with senior officers at a major military base near the Chinese border, following rebels' claims of capturing the key regional army headquarters.
On July 25, the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) claimed to have taken over a major military base and continued fighting to secure full control. On Saturday, August 3, the group posted photographs of its troops at the military stronghold in Lashio.
“It has been found that senior officials were arrested,” military spokesman Zaw Min Tun said on Monday, August 5.
Jason also suggested that the fall of the key regional army headquarters near the Chinese border "could mark the beginning of the end" for the junta that has been in power since the 2021 coup.
