Thousands of people took to the streets of Sudan's capital to protest against the October 25 military coup. It was the ninth in a series of demonstrations against the coup that has pushed the country into political chaos.

Sudan: Thousands of protesters march in the capital Khartoum against military coup

Thousands of people staged protest demanding the restoration of a civilian-led government after a military coup. This is the 9th in a series of demonstrations.

Thousands protest against military coup in Sudan

Sudanese security forces killed at least five demonstrators Saturday in a crackdown on anti-coup protests, medics said, after the military tightened its grip by forming a new ruling council.

Thousands hit the streets in cities across Sudan

The US State Department said on Monday that it is withholding $700 million in emergency financing for Sudan in reaction to the continuing military coup attempt in the nation.

The putsch was criticised by spokesman Ned Price, who also announced that the disbursement of the full assistance package will be halted because the money were "designed to promote the country's democratic transition."&nbsp;

The US urged the immediate restoration of a civilian government.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | Gravitas: Three protesters "shot dead" after military takeover in Sudan

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"The civilian-led transitional government should be immediately restored and represents the will of the people," State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudans-general-declares-state-of-emergency-dissolves-government-423880">Also read | Sudan's general declares state of emergency, dissolves government</a>

"In light of these developments, the United States is pausing assistance," Price said.

"We are very much standing with the people of Sudan. The people of Sudan have made clear their aspirations for the continuation of transition to democracy and we will continue to support that including, if needed, by holding accountable those responsible for these anti-democratic actions." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/military-coup-in-sudan-pm-ministers-and-officials-detained-internet-access-cut-off-423768">Also Read:&nbsp;PM, ministers, and officials detained&nbsp;in Sudan</a>

Price said that the US had no previous knowledge of the military's plan to depose Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and that it had been unable to reach the jailed civilian leader.

The coup occurred while Israel was attempting to improve relations with Sudan.

According to Israel's official radio, a senior Sudanese ambassador said that the military's seizure of the country will not have a significant impact on the normalisation process with Israel.&nbsp;

The military officials, many of whom favour normalisation efforts, had reinforced their position by dissolving the government and proclaiming a state of emergency, according to the Kan news report.

According to the site, Hamdok, who was detained during the coup, planned to fly to Washington shortly to formally sign the normalisation agreement.

Though the station stated many conversations on the topic were conducted Monday, Israeli officials have yet to openly react on the Sudanese coup.

Military authorities, according to Channel 12 News, are in support of the normalisation process.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The US State Department said on Monday that it is withholding $700 million in emergency financing for Sudan in reaction to the continuing military coup attempt in the nation.

The US State Department said on Monday that it is withholding $700 million in emergency financing for Sudan in reaction to the continuing military coup attempt in the nation. The putsch was criticised by spokesman Ned Price, who also announced that the disbursement of the full assistance package will be halted because the money were "designed to promote the country's democratic transition." The US urged the immediate restoration of a civilian government. Watch | Gravitas: Three protesters "shot dead" after military takeover in Sudan "The civilian-led transitional government should be immediately restored and represents the will of the people," State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters. Also read | Sudan's general declares state of emergency, dissolves government "In light of these developments, the United States is pausing assistance," Price said. "We are very much standing with the people of Sudan. The people of Sudan have made clear their aspirations for the continuation of transition to democracy and we will continue to support that including, if needed, by holding accountable those responsible for these anti-democratic actions." Also Read: PM, ministers, and officials detained in Sudan Price said that the US had no previous knowledge of the military's plan to depose Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and that it had been unable to reach the jailed civilian leader. The coup occurred while Israel was attempting to improve relations with Sudan. According to Israel's official radio, a senior Sudanese ambassador said that the military's seizure of the country will not have a significant impact on the normalisation process with Israel. The military officials, many of whom favour normalisation efforts, had reinforced their position by dissolving the government and proclaiming a state of emergency, according to the Kan news report. According to the site, Hamdok, who was detained during the coup, planned to fly to Washington shortly to formally sign the normalisation agreement. Though the station stated many conversations on the topic were conducted Monday, Israeli officials have yet to openly react on the Sudanese coup. Military authorities, according to Channel 12 News, are in support of the normalisation process. (With inputs from agencies)

Military coup in Sudan: US suspends $700 million in aid, urges restoration of government

Sudan's interim prime minister and many top government officials were detained on Monday, according to the information ministry, which described the events as a military coup.

According to the ministry's Facebook page, the country's internet was mostly shut off, and armed personnel barricaded bridges.

Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok's whereabouts were not immediately known, according to the report.

Meanwhile, patriotic traditional music and Nile river pictures were shown on the country's main news station.&nbsp;

Watch:

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In separate pleas, the country's major pro-democracy organisation and the country's largest political party asked citizens to come to the streets to protest the apparent military coup.

Thousands of people poured onto the streets of Khartoum and Omdurman, its twin city. 
 
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Sudanese protesters lift national flags as they rally on 60th Street in the capital Khartoum, to denounce overnight detentions by the army of government members, on October 25, 2021. (AFP Photo)

Protesters reportedly blocked roadways and set fire to tyres while police officers used tear gas to disperse them, according to footage uploaded online.

Sudan has been grappling with a democratic transition since long-time ruler Omar al-Bashir was deposed by huge demonstrations two years ago, and a military takeover would be a severe setback.

Jeffrey Feltman, the US Special Envoy to the Horn of Africa, stated early Monday that Washington was "very disturbed."&nbsp;

The arrests on Monday came after weeks of escalating tensions between civilian and military officials in Sudan.

A failed coup attempt in September polarised the country, pitting more hardline Islamists who seek a military rule against those who overthrew al-Bashir in rallies.

Both factions have turned to the streets in recent days in protests.

Hamdok was apprehended and brought to an unidentified location, according to the information ministry's Facebook page.

A number of officials were also detained, according to the report, and their locations were unknown.&nbsp;

Earlier Monday, two officials confirmed that at least five government figures were being held. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to speak to the media. The officials said the detained government members include Industry Minister Ibrahim al-Sheikh, Information Minister Hamza Baloul, and Mohammed al-Fiky Suliman, member of the country's ruling transitional body, known as The Sovereign Council, and Faisal Mohammed Saleh, a media adviser to Hamdok. Ayman Khalid, governor of the state containing the capital, Khartoum, was also arrested, according to the official Facebook page of his office.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-envoy-urges-n-korea-to-end-provocations-accept-offer-of-talks-423404">US envoy urges N Korea to end 'provocations', accept offer of talks</a>

Under Hamdok and the transitional council, Sudan has slowly emerged from years of international pariah status in which it existed under al-Bashir. The country was removed from the United States' state supporter of terror list in 2020, opening the door for badly needed international loans and investment. But the country's economy has struggled with the shock of a number of economic reforms called for by international lending institutions. There have been previous military coups in Sudan since it gained its independence from Britain and Egypt in 1956. Al-Bashir came to power in a 1989 military coup that removed the country's last elected government. The arrests followed meetings by Feltman, the special U.S. envoy, with Sudanese military and civilian leaders Saturday and Sunday in efforts to resolve the dispute. Sudan's state news website highlighted the meetings with military officials. The Sudanese Communist Party called on workers to go on strike and mass civil disobedience after what it described as a "full military coup" orchestrated by the Sovereign Council's head Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan.

NetBlocks, a group which tracks disruptions across the internet, said it had seen a "significant disruption" to both fixed-line and mobile internet connections across Sudan with multiple providers early Monday. "Metrics corroborate user reports of network disruptions appearing consistent with an internet shutdown," the advocacy group said. "The disruption is likely to limit the free flow of information online and news coverage of incidents on the ground." 
 
(With inputs from AP)

Sudan's interim prime minister and many top government officials were detained on Monday, according to the information ministry, which described the events as a military coup.

Sudan's interim prime minister and many top government officials were detained on Monday, according to the information ministry, which described the events as a military coup. According to the ministry's Facebook page, the country's internet was mostly shut off, and armed personnel barricaded bridges. Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok's whereabouts were not immediately known, according to the report. Meanwhile, patriotic traditional music and Nile river pictures were shown on the country's main news station. Watch: In separate pleas, the country's major pro-democracy organisation and the country's largest political party asked citizens to come to the streets to protest the apparent military coup. Thousands of people poured onto the streets of Khartoum and Omdurman, its twin city. Sudanese protesters lift national flags as they rally on 60th Street in the capital Khartoum, to denounce overnight detentions by the army of government members, on October 25, 2021. (AFP Photo) Protesters reportedly blocked roadways and set fire to tyres while police officers used tear gas to disperse them, according to footage uploaded online. Sudan has been grappling with a democratic transition since long-time ruler Omar al-Bashir was deposed by huge demonstrations two years ago, and a military takeover would be a severe setback. Jeffrey Feltman, the US Special Envoy to the Horn of Africa, stated early Monday that Washington was "very disturbed." The arrests on Monday came after weeks of escalating tensions between civilian and military officials in Sudan. A failed coup attempt in September polarised the country, pitting more hardline Islamists who seek a military rule against those who overthrew al-Bashir in rallies. Both factions have turned to the streets in recent days in protests. Hamdok was apprehended and brought to an unidentified location, according to the information ministry's Facebook page. A number of officials were also detained, according to the report, and their locations were unknown. Earlier Monday, two officials confirmed that at least five government figures were being held. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to speak to the media. The officials said the detained government members include Industry Minister Ibrahim al-Sheikh, Information Minister Hamza Baloul, and Mohammed al-Fiky Suliman, member of the country's ruling transitional body, known as The Sovereign Council, and Faisal Mohammed Saleh, a media adviser to Hamdok. Ayman Khalid, governor of the state containing the capital, Khartoum, was also arrested, according to the official Facebook page of his office. Also Read | US envoy urges N Korea to end 'provocations', accept offer of talks Under Hamdok and the transitional council, Sudan has slowly emerged from years of international pariah status in which it existed under al-Bashir. The country was removed from the United States' state supporter of terror list in 2020, opening the door for badly needed international loans and investment. But the country's economy has struggled with the shock of a number of economic reforms called for by international lending institutions. There have been previous military coups in Sudan since it gained its independence from Britain and Egypt in 1956. Al-Bashir came to power in a 1989 military coup that removed the country's last elected government. The arrests followed meetings by Feltman, the special U.S. envoy, with Sudanese military and civilian leaders Saturday and Sunday in efforts to resolve the dispute. Sudan's state news website highlighted the meetings with military officials. The Sudanese Communist Party called on workers to go on strike and mass civil disobedience after what it described as a "full military coup" orchestrated by the Sovereign Council's head Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan. NetBlocks, a group which tracks disruptions across the internet, said it had seen a "significant disruption" to both fixed-line and mobile internet connections across Sudan with multiple providers early Monday. "Metrics corroborate user reports of network disruptions appearing consistent with an internet shutdown," the advocacy group said. "The disruption is likely to limit the free flow of information online and news coverage of incidents on the ground." (With inputs from AP)

Military coup in Sudan: PM, ministers, and officials detained, internet access cut off

The country's Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok has been put under house arrest after joint military force besieged his house earlier today. Sources also indicated that the forces arrested four cabinet ministers and one civilian member of the ruling sovereign council. According to reports, internet has been shut across the country amid violent protests. The country's information ministry says the pm was detained for refusing to be part of the coup. Civilian members of the ruling council also detained. Meanwhile demonstrators blocked roads and set tyres on fire to protest against the army.

Sudan's PM Abdallah Hamdok put under house arrest after joint military force besieged his house

Pro-democracy monks march against military junta in Myanmar

Ahead of a meeting of West African leaders to discuss their response to Sunday's coup that ousted President Alpha Conde, Guinea’s new military leaders have freed scores of political prisoners jailed by the previous civilian government.

According to reports, at least 80 political prisoners detained by Conde were released on Tuesday evening. All of them were held on a variety of charges, including breaching security, destroying public property and manufacturing weapons.

Some had campaigned against his attempt to stay in power for a third term after altering the constitution to permit it, a move opponents termed it illegal.

The move comes as the military junta faces growing international pressure to release the deposed president and restore civilian rule.

West African countries had threatened to impose sanctions following Conde’s overthrow.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gunfire-in-guinea-capital-troops-on-streets-410891">Gunfire in Guinea capital, troops on streets</a>

Coup leader Mamady Doumbouya, a former French legionnaire, has pledged to install a unified, transitional government, but has not said when or how that will happen.

Public discontent in Guinea had been brewing for months over a battered economy, which worsened after Covid pandemic, and the leadership of Conde, who became the first democratically elected president in 2010 and was re-elected in 2015.

But last year, Conde pushed through a new constitution that allowed him to run for a third term in October 2020.

The move sparked mass demonstrations in which dozens of protesters were killed. Conde won the October election but the political opposition maintained the poll was a sham.

Doumbouya, hours after taking power, appeared on television and accused the government of “endemic corruption” and of “trampling on citizens’ rights”.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of a meeting of West African leaders to discuss their response to Sunday's coup that ousted President Alpha Conde, Guinea’s new military leaders have freed scores of political prisoners jailed by the previous civilian government.

Ahead of a meeting of West African leaders to discuss their response to Sunday's coup that ousted President Alpha Conde, Guinea’s new military leaders have freed scores of political prisoners jailed by the previous civilian government. According to reports, at least 80 political prisoners detained by Conde were released on Tuesday evening. All of them were held on a variety of charges, including breaching security, destroying public property and manufacturing weapons. Some had campaigned against his attempt to stay in power for a third term after altering the constitution to permit it, a move opponents termed it illegal. The move comes as the military junta faces growing international pressure to release the deposed president and restore civilian rule. West African countries had threatened to impose sanctions following Conde’s overthrow. Also read | Gunfire in Guinea capital, troops on streets Coup leader Mamady Doumbouya, a former French legionnaire, has pledged to install a unified, transitional government, but has not said when or how that will happen. Public discontent in Guinea had been brewing for months over a battered economy, which worsened after Covid pandemic, and the leadership of Conde, who became the first democratically elected president in 2010 and was re-elected in 2015. But last year, Conde pushed through a new constitution that allowed him to run for a third term in October 2020. The move sparked mass demonstrations in which dozens of protesters were killed. Conde won the October election but the political opposition maintained the poll was a sham. Doumbouya, hours after taking power, appeared on television and accused the government of “endemic corruption” and of “trampling on citizens’ rights”. (With inputs from agencies)

Guinea’s military releases political prisoners after pressure from West African leaders

Guinea's new military leaders sought to tighten their grip on power Monday after overthrowing President Alpha Conde, ordering the soldiers from his presidential guard to join the junta forces and barring government officials from leaving the country.

After putting the West African nation back under military rule for the first time in over a decade, the junta already had dissolved the National Assembly and the country's constitution. On Monday, regional military commanders replaced Guinea's governors.

Junta leader Colonel&nbsp;Mamadi Doumbouya said the military regime would not pursue vendettas against political enemies, though he also told officials from Conde's deposed government to turn over their passports.

"There will be no spirit of hatred or revenge. There will be no witch hunt, " said Doumbouya, who had led the Guinean army's special forces unit before seizing power Sunday. "But justice will be the compass that will guide every Guinean citizen."

"For former members of the government, travel outside our borders will not be allowed during the transition," he said during the brief speech. "All your travel documents and vehicles must be handed over to the general secretaries of your former departments."

The military junta has refused to issue a timeline for releasing Conde, saying the 83-year-old deposed leader still had access to medical care and his doctors. The West African regional bloc known as ECOWAS, though, called for his immediate release and threatened to impose sanctions if the demand was not met.

Conde's removal by force Sunday came after the president sought and won a controversial third term in office last year, saying the term limits did not apply to him. While the political opposition and the junta both sought his ouster, it remained unclear Monday how united the two would be going forward.

It also was unknown how much support the junta leader had within the larger military. As the commander of the army's special forces unit, he directed elite soldiers, but it was still possible that others who remained loyal to the ousted president could mount a countercoup in the coming hours or days.

In announcing the coup on state television, Doumbouya cast himself as a patriot of Guinea, which he said had failed to progress economically since gaining independence from France decades earlier. Observers, though, say the tensions between Guinea’s president and the army colonel stem from a recent proposal to cut some military salaries.

"We will no longer entrust politics to one man. We will entrust it to the people, " he said, draped in a Guinean flag with about a half dozen other soldiers flanking him at his side.

Sunday's coup was a dramatic setback for Guinea, where many had hoped the country had turned the page on military power grabs.

Conde’s 2010 election victory — the country’s first democratic vote ever — was supposed to be a fresh start after decades of corrupt, authoritarian rule and political turmoil. In the years since, though, opponents say Conde, too, failed to improve the lives of Guineans, most of whom live in poverty despite the country’s vast mineral riches of bauxite and gold.

The year after Conde's first election, he narrowly survived an assassination attempt when gunmen surrounded his home overnight and pounded his bedroom with rockets. Rocket-propelled grenades landed inside the compound and one of his bodyguards was killed.

Violent street demonstrations broke out last year after Conde organized a referendum to modify the constitution. The unrest intensified after he won the October election, and the opposition said dozens were killed during the crisis.

In neighboring Senegal, which has a large diaspora of Guineans who opposed Conde, news of his political demise was met with relief.

"President Alpha Conde deserves to be deposed. He stubbornly tried to run for a third term when he had no right to do so, " said Malick Diallo, a young Guinean shopkeeper in the suburbs of Dakar.

"We know that a coup d’etat is not good," said Mamadou Saliou Diallo, another Guinean living in Senegal. "A president must be elected by a democratic vote. But we have no choice. We have a president who is too old, who no longer makes Guineans dream and who does not want to leave power. "

Guinea has had a long history of political instability. In 1984, Lansana Conte took control of the country after the first post-independence leader died. He remained in power for a quarter-century until his death in 2008 and was accused of siphoning off state coffers to enrich his family and friends.

The country’s second coup soon followed, putting army Capt. Moussa "Dadis" Camara in charge. During his rule, security forces opened fire on demonstrators at a stadium in Conakry who were protesting his plans to run for president. Human rights groups have said more than 150 people were killed and at least 100 women were raped. Camara later went into exile after surviving an assassination attempt, and a transitional government organized the landmark 2010 election won by Conde.

Guinea's new military leaders sought to tighten their grip on power Monday after overthrowing President Alpha Conde, ordering the soldiers from his presidential guard to join the junta forces and barring government officials from leaving the country.

Guinea's new military leaders sought to tighten their grip on power Monday after overthrowing President Alpha Conde, ordering the soldiers from his presidential guard to join the junta forces and barring government officials from leaving the country. After putting the West African nation back under military rule for the first time in over a decade, the junta already had dissolved the National Assembly and the country's constitution. On Monday, regional military commanders replaced Guinea's governors. Junta leader Colonel Mamadi Doumbouya said the military regime would not pursue vendettas against political enemies, though he also told officials from Conde's deposed government to turn over their passports. "There will be no spirit of hatred or revenge. There will be no witch hunt, " said Doumbouya, who had led the Guinean army's special forces unit before seizing power Sunday. "But justice will be the compass that will guide every Guinean citizen." "For former members of the government, travel outside our borders will not be allowed during the transition," he said during the brief speech. "All your travel documents and vehicles must be handed over to the general secretaries of your former departments." The military junta has refused to issue a timeline for releasing Conde, saying the 83-year-old deposed leader still had access to medical care and his doctors. The West African regional bloc known as ECOWAS, though, called for his immediate release and threatened to impose sanctions if the demand was not met. Conde's removal by force Sunday came after the president sought and won a controversial third term in office last year, saying the term limits did not apply to him. While the political opposition and the junta both sought his ouster, it remained unclear Monday how united the two would be going forward. It also was unknown how much support the junta leader had within the larger military. As the commander of the army's special forces unit, he directed elite soldiers, but it was still possible that others who remained loyal to the ousted president could mount a countercoup in the coming hours or days. In announcing the coup on state television, Doumbouya cast himself as a patriot of Guinea, which he said had failed to progress economically since gaining independence from France decades earlier. Observers, though, say the tensions between Guinea’s president and the army colonel stem from a recent proposal to cut some military salaries. "We will no longer entrust politics to one man. We will entrust it to the people, " he said, draped in a Guinean flag with about a half dozen other soldiers flanking him at his side. Sunday's coup was a dramatic setback for Guinea, where many had hoped the country had turned the page on military power grabs. Conde’s 2010 election victory — the country’s first democratic vote ever — was supposed to be a fresh start after decades of corrupt, authoritarian rule and political turmoil. In the years since, though, opponents say Conde, too, failed to improve the lives of Guineans, most of whom live in poverty despite the country’s vast mineral riches of bauxite and gold. The year after Conde's first election, he narrowly survived an assassination attempt when gunmen surrounded his home overnight and pounded his bedroom with rockets. Rocket-propelled grenades landed inside the compound and one of his bodyguards was killed. Violent street demonstrations broke out last year after Conde organized a referendum to modify the constitution. The unrest intensified after he won the October election, and the opposition said dozens were killed during the crisis. In neighboring Senegal, which has a large diaspora of Guineans who opposed Conde, news of his political demise was met with relief. "President Alpha Conde deserves to be deposed. He stubbornly tried to run for a third term when he had no right to do so, " said Malick Diallo, a young Guinean shopkeeper in the suburbs of Dakar. "We know that a coup d’etat is not good," said Mamadou Saliou Diallo, another Guinean living in Senegal. "A president must be elected by a democratic vote. But we have no choice. We have a president who is too old, who no longer makes Guineans dream and who does not want to leave power. " Guinea has had a long history of political instability. In 1984, Lansana Conte took control of the country after the first post-independence leader died. He remained in power for a quarter-century until his death in 2008 and was accused of siphoning off state coffers to enrich his family and friends. The country’s second coup soon followed, putting army Capt. Moussa "Dadis" Camara in charge. During his rule, security forces opened fire on demonstrators at a stadium in Conakry who were protesting his plans to run for president. Human rights groups have said more than 150 people were killed and at least 100 women were raped. Camara later went into exile after surviving an assassination attempt, and a transitional government organized the landmark 2010 election won by Conde.

Guinea's new junta leaders seek to tighten their grip on power

A unit of the military has seized power and declared a coup in Guinea. The rebels have closed the borders and abrogated the constitution after hours of unleashing violence in and around the presidential palace.

Military claims coup in Guinea, nationwide curfew declared by rebels

Military leaders have declared a nationwide curfew in Guinea. The military is also set to replace all governance. UN secretary General Antonio Gutters has condemned the coup.

Military leaders declare nationwide curfew in Guinea

As the country faces another <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> outbreak, locals have started looking for volunteers clad in white PPE kits to perform the last rites of the Covid victims.

Last year, Myanmar locals started providing free taxi services for those who were infected by the deadly coronavirus. These volunteers were readily taking victims to hospitals and quarantine centres. However, locals were hesitant about taking help from them.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-rebel-group-suspends-key-leader-in-massacre-investigation-397219" hreflang="en">Myanmar rebel group suspends key leader in massacre investigation</a>

Things seemed to have changed now as locals are turning towards these volunteers for help as Myanmar has observed an alarming increase in coronavirus cases.

"Before... people were scared to see emergency teams wearing PPE," a volunteer in Hle Guu township north of Yangon told new agency, AFP. "But now, they are looking for us. The situation is upside down."

Last week, Tun Khine (a businessman who spoke under a pseudonym) took seven dead bodies to a crematorium ground. Of these seven dead bodies, one was a confirmed case who died in the hospital and the other six were suspected to have been infected from the virus and had never been taken to the hospital.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/stay-at-home-orders-in-myanmars-yangon-as-covid-cases-spike-396593" hreflang="en">Stay-at-home orders in Myanmar's Yangon as Covid cases spike</a>

While the world was fighting coronavirus last year, Myanmar was battling a military coup. Since the Myanmar military ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi and took control of the country, thousands of health workers went on strike to protest the rising violence in the country.

Since the coup, all medical workers have been scared of getting attacked by the forces. Khine’s team, too, has voiced this concern. "Of course we are afraid," he said. "But our bigger fear is our people being infected and risking their lives."

At the end of every shift, the team members spray each other with disinfectants to protect themselves and their family members from the deadly coronavirus. However, they have vowed to continue helping fellow citizens in this battle against COVID-19. "More people are going to die if we stop working because we are afraid,"&nbsp;Khine said.

As the country faces another coronavirus outbreak, locals have started looking for volunteers clad in white PPE kits to perform the last rites of the Covid victims.

As the country faces another coronavirus outbreak, locals have started looking for volunteers clad in white PPE kits to perform the last rites of the Covid victims. Last year, Myanmar locals started providing free taxi services for those who were infected by the deadly coronavirus. These volunteers were readily taking victims to hospitals and quarantine centres. However, locals were hesitant about taking help from them. Also read | Myanmar rebel group suspends key leader in massacre investigation Things seemed to have changed now as locals are turning towards these volunteers for help as Myanmar has observed an alarming increase in coronavirus cases. "Before... people were scared to see emergency teams wearing PPE," a volunteer in Hle Guu township north of Yangon told new agency, AFP. "But now, they are looking for us. The situation is upside down." Last week, Tun Khine (a businessman who spoke under a pseudonym) took seven dead bodies to a crematorium ground. Of these seven dead bodies, one was a confirmed case who died in the hospital and the other six were suspected to have been infected from the virus and had never been taken to the hospital. Also read | Stay-at-home orders in Myanmar's Yangon as Covid cases spike While the world was fighting coronavirus last year, Myanmar was battling a military coup. Since the Myanmar military ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi and took control of the country, thousands of health workers went on strike to protest the rising violence in the country. Since the coup, all medical workers have been scared of getting attacked by the forces. Khine’s team, too, has voiced this concern. "Of course we are afraid," he said. "But our bigger fear is our people being infected and risking their lives." At the end of every shift, the team members spray each other with disinfectants to protect themselves and their family members from the deadly coronavirus. However, they have vowed to continue helping fellow citizens in this battle against COVID-19. "More people are going to die if we stop working because we are afraid," Khine said.

Health volunteers provide hope to Covid-infected Myanmar amid another outbreak

Western powers have imposed sanctions. Neighboring countries have implored the military to restore democracy. More than 200 human rights groups have called for an arms embargo. And last week, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a blunt rebuke aimed at isolating the generals.

The diplomatic pressure has done little to change the situation in Myanmar.

The military dictatorship now ruling the Southeast Asian nation has brushed aside the entreaties and threats, even as the country of 54 million people hurtles toward paralysis and possibly civil war that could destabilise the region. Confident in its impunity after a February 1 coup, the putschists have stretched diplomacy to its limit.

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Q: Was this the outcome that had always been foreseen?

A: Not initially. Many people in Myanmar had hoped for intervention by the United Nations or perhaps the United States in the period immediately following the coup, which upended a November election victory by the civilian leadership and escalated into a brutal repression. Pro-democracy protesters carried signs that read "R2P," or "Responsibility to Protect," referring to a 2005 United Nations doctrine affirming the responsibility of nations to protect populations from such egregious crimes.

But diplomatic efforts at the United Nations and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the 10-nation regional body known as ASEAN, have largely fizzled.

Q: Why does Myanmar’s coup leadership appear so confident?

A: The country, formerly known as Burma, was run by the military for decades after a coup in 1962, and the generals in charge never really embraced the idea of democracy. The constitution they adopted in 2008 paved the way for the election of civilian leaders but ensured the military's complete autonomy and veto power over major constitutional amendments.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-junta-leader-thanks-russia-for-boosting-military-393214" hreflang="en">Myanmar junta leader thanks Russia for boosting military</a>

Thant Myint-U, an American-born Burmese historian and grandson of U Thant, the former UN&nbsp;secretary-general, wrote in a recent edition of Foreign Affairs that the Myanmar army’s need for total power is ingrained.

"It is led by an officer corps that cannot imagine a Myanmar in which the military is not ultimately in control," he wrote.

The coup leader, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, appears to have secured vitally important allies — China and Russia — insulating Myanmar from any interventionist steps. The general also oversees a powerful patronage network built around two military-owned conglomerates and his family’s businesses. A democratic system could imperil them.

The U.N. Security Council, the 15-member body that is empowered to take coercive action, has issued only mildly worded criticisms since the coup, at least partly reflecting resistance to anything stronger by China and Russia. Chinese diplomats have recently referred to Min Aung Hlaing as Myanmar’s leader. He also was treated well in a visit to Russia this week.

Human rights activists have expressed exasperation at what they view as the Security Council’s failure on Myanmar.

"The council’s occasional statements of concern in the face of the military’s violent repression of largely peaceful protesters is the diplomatic equivalent of shrugging their shoulders and walking away," Louis Charbonneau, the U.N. director at Human Rights Watch, said last month in joining more than 200 other groups in demanding the council impose an arms embargo.

Q: Was the junta damaged by the General Assembly’s rebuke?

A: The General Assembly adopted a resolution denouncing the coup Friday, an exceedingly rare gesture that grew partly out of the Security Council’s inaction, and it was deemed a success by Western diplomats who said Myanmar’s military had now been ostracized.

But the resolution’s language was weakened to ensure more yes votes — and even then, 36 countries abstained. Analysts said the vote was unlikely to persuade the junta to negotiate with its domestic adversaries.

Nonetheless, said Richard Gowan, the U.N. director at the International Crisis Group, the resolution was “at least a clear signal of international disapproval for the coup and will make it harder for the junta to normalize its relations with the outside world.”

Q:&nbsp;What have other Southeast Asian nations done about the coup?

A: ASEAN, which includes Myanmar, has tried to mediate. But its efforts have done more to help Min Aung Hlaing consolidate his authority than to restore democracy.

The military’s takeover compelled ASEAN to convene a meeting in April, to which they invited Min Aung Hlaing.

ASEAN practices noninterference in the internal affairs of members and did not formally recognize the general as Myanmar’s new leader. But his red-carpet arrival for the meeting, held in Jakarta, the Indonesian capital, was repeatedly trumpeted by Myanmar’s state-run media as recognition of his leadership.

ASEAN conspicuously did not invite anyone to represent the deposed leadership, which now calls itself the National Unity Government, or anyone else from the pro-democracy movement.

The leaders agreed on what they called a "Five-Point Consensus," including the immediate cessation of violence, constructive dialogue to find a peaceful solution and ASEAN’s appointment of a special envoy to facilitate mediation.

While member nations Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore pushed for ASEAN to take firm action, strong measures were resisted by Thailand, said Aaron Connelly, a research fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies in Singapore. (Thailand’s government is headed by a former general who took power in a 2014 coup.)

The consensus made no mention of freeing political prisoners, who now number more than 5,000 and include the country’s elected civilian leader, Aung San Suu Kyi. Suu Kyi would normally have attended such a meeting.

ASEAN has yet to name the special envoy. So far, the main outcome of ASEAN’s diplomatic effort has been to damage its own credibility. Myanmar protesters have been burning the ASEAN flag at demonstrations.

Q:&nbsp;What is the National Unity Government and what does it do?

A: The winners of the November election were scheduled to be sworn into office on February 01. But that morning, soldiers swept through the capital city, Naypyitaw, and arrested many of the elected officials. Some who escaped have since formed the National Unity Government, which has declared itself Myanmar’s legitimate government.

Myanmar’s ambassador to the United Nations, Kyaw Moe Tun, who refused to cooperate with the junta, now represents the National Unity Government. While the world body continues to regard him as Myanmar’s ambassador, no country has formally recognized the National Unity Government.

Western powers have imposed sanctions. Neighboring countries have implored the military to restore democracy. More than 200 human rights groups have called for an arms embargo.

Western powers have imposed sanctions. Neighboring countries have implored the military to restore democracy. More than 200 human rights groups have called for an arms embargo. And last week, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a blunt rebuke aimed at isolating the generals. The diplomatic pressure has done little to change the situation in Myanmar. The military dictatorship now ruling the Southeast Asian nation has brushed aside the entreaties and threats, even as the country of 54 million people hurtles toward paralysis and possibly civil war that could destabilise the region. Confident in its impunity after a February 1 coup, the putschists have stretched diplomacy to its limit. Also read | Myanmar: Facebook promotes violent content against coup protestors, study reveals Q: Was this the outcome that had always been foreseen? A: Not initially. Many people in Myanmar had hoped for intervention by the United Nations or perhaps the United States in the period immediately following the coup, which upended a November election victory by the civilian leadership and escalated into a brutal repression. Pro-democracy protesters carried signs that read "R2P," or "Responsibility to Protect," referring to a 2005 United Nations doctrine affirming the responsibility of nations to protect populations from such egregious crimes. But diplomatic efforts at the United Nations and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the 10-nation regional body known as ASEAN, have largely fizzled. Q: Why does Myanmar’s coup leadership appear so confident? A: The country, formerly known as Burma, was run by the military for decades after a coup in 1962, and the generals in charge never really embraced the idea of democracy. The constitution they adopted in 2008 paved the way for the election of civilian leaders but ensured the military's complete autonomy and veto power over major constitutional amendments. Also read | Myanmar junta leader thanks Russia for boosting military Thant Myint-U, an American-born Burmese historian and grandson of U Thant, the former UN secretary-general, wrote in a recent edition of Foreign Affairs that the Myanmar army’s need for total power is ingrained. "It is led by an officer corps that cannot imagine a Myanmar in which the military is not ultimately in control," he wrote. The coup leader, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, appears to have secured vitally important allies — China and Russia — insulating Myanmar from any interventionist steps. The general also oversees a powerful patronage network built around two military-owned conglomerates and his family’s businesses. A democratic system could imperil them. The U.N. Security Council, the 15-member body that is empowered to take coercive action, has issued only mildly worded criticisms since the coup, at least partly reflecting resistance to anything stronger by China and Russia. Chinese diplomats have recently referred to Min Aung Hlaing as Myanmar’s leader. He also was treated well in a visit to Russia this week. Human rights activists have expressed exasperation at what they view as the Security Council’s failure on Myanmar. "The council’s occasional statements of concern in the face of the military’s violent repression of largely peaceful protesters is the diplomatic equivalent of shrugging their shoulders and walking away," Louis Charbonneau, the U.N. director at Human Rights Watch, said last month in joining more than 200 other groups in demanding the council impose an arms embargo. Q: Was the junta damaged by the General Assembly’s rebuke? A: The General Assembly adopted a resolution denouncing the coup Friday, an exceedingly rare gesture that grew partly out of the Security Council’s inaction, and it was deemed a success by Western diplomats who said Myanmar’s military had now been ostracized. But the resolution’s language was weakened to ensure more yes votes — and even then, 36 countries abstained. Analysts said the vote was unlikely to persuade the junta to negotiate with its domestic adversaries. Nonetheless, said Richard Gowan, the U.N. director at the International Crisis Group, the resolution was “at least a clear signal of international disapproval for the coup and will make it harder for the junta to normalize its relations with the outside world.” Q: What have other Southeast Asian nations done about the coup? A: ASEAN, which includes Myanmar, has tried to mediate. But its efforts have done more to help Min Aung Hlaing consolidate his authority than to restore democracy. The military’s takeover compelled ASEAN to convene a meeting in April, to which they invited Min Aung Hlaing. ASEAN practices noninterference in the internal affairs of members and did not formally recognize the general as Myanmar’s new leader. But his red-carpet arrival for the meeting, held in Jakarta, the Indonesian capital, was repeatedly trumpeted by Myanmar’s state-run media as recognition of his leadership. ASEAN conspicuously did not invite anyone to represent the deposed leadership, which now calls itself the National Unity Government, or anyone else from the pro-democracy movement. The leaders agreed on what they called a "Five-Point Consensus," including the immediate cessation of violence, constructive dialogue to find a peaceful solution and ASEAN’s appointment of a special envoy to facilitate mediation. While member nations Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore pushed for ASEAN to take firm action, strong measures were resisted by Thailand, said Aaron Connelly, a research fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies in Singapore. (Thailand’s government is headed by a former general who took power in a 2014 coup.) The consensus made no mention of freeing political prisoners, who now number more than 5,000 and include the country’s elected civilian leader, Aung San Suu Kyi. Suu Kyi would normally have attended such a meeting. ASEAN has yet to name the special envoy. So far, the main outcome of ASEAN’s diplomatic effort has been to damage its own credibility. Myanmar protesters have been burning the ASEAN flag at demonstrations. Q: What is the National Unity Government and what does it do? A: The winners of the November election were scheduled to be sworn into office on February 01. But that morning, soldiers swept through the capital city, Naypyitaw, and arrested many of the elected officials. Some who escaped have since formed the National Unity Government, which has declared itself Myanmar’s legitimate government. Myanmar’s ambassador to the United Nations, Kyaw Moe Tun, who refused to cooperate with the junta, now represents the National Unity Government. While the world body continues to regard him as Myanmar’s ambassador, no country has formally recognized the National Unity Government.

Confident in its impunity, the Myanmar junta ignores diplomacy

As Myanmar locals struggle to get their freedom back, the social media platform, Facebook, is reportedly promoting content that incites violence against Myanmar’s coup protesters.

According to a recent investigation carried out by the rights group Global Witness, it was found that Facebook recommends content that violates its own policies. The investigators found out that if someone likes the Myanmar military’s fan page, which has no recent posts related to violence, Facebook starts suggesting violent content.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-to-boost-military-ties-with-myanmar-as-junta-leader-visits-393334" hreflang="en">Russia says to boost military ties with Myanmar as junta leader visits</a>

Some of the posts that came up quite a lot were posters of people with the caption ‘wanted’. Investigators found an image of a young woman with the caption ‘wanted’ and the poster also offered a bounty of $10 million to find her 'dead or alive'. She is believed to be a participant of the group that burned down a factory after the military crackdown.

"This girl is the one who committed arson in Hlaing Tharyar. Her account has been deactivated.&nbsp;But she cannot run," some of the captions read.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-suu-kyi-back-in-junta-court-on-sedition-charges-393182" hreflang="en">Myanmar's Suu Kyi back in junta court on sedition charges</a>

It was also observed that several posts being promoted by Facebook’s suggestion algorithm include content that glorifies the Myanmar military and its violent actions, promotes misinformation and fake or incorrect data.

Facebook claims the staff is closely monitoring the issue and has taken action on content, pages, or groups that are breaking the rules set up by the social media platform.

As Myanmar locals struggle to get their freedom back, the social media platform, Facebook, is reportedly promoting content that incites violence against Myanmar’s coup protesters.

As Myanmar locals struggle to get their freedom back, the social media platform, Facebook, is reportedly promoting content that incites violence against Myanmar’s coup protesters. According to a recent investigation carried out by the rights group Global Witness, it was found that Facebook recommends content that violates its own policies. The investigators found out that if someone likes the Myanmar military’s fan page, which has no recent posts related to violence, Facebook starts suggesting violent content. Also read | Russia says to boost military ties with Myanmar as junta leader visits Some of the posts that came up quite a lot were posters of people with the caption ‘wanted’. Investigators found an image of a young woman with the caption ‘wanted’ and the poster also offered a bounty of $10 million to find her 'dead or alive'. She is believed to be a participant of the group that burned down a factory after the military crackdown. "This girl is the one who committed arson in Hlaing Tharyar. Her account has been deactivated. But she cannot run," some of the captions read. Also read | Myanmar's Suu Kyi back in junta court on sedition charges It was also observed that several posts being promoted by Facebook’s suggestion algorithm include content that glorifies the Myanmar military and its violent actions, promotes misinformation and fake or incorrect data. Facebook claims the staff is closely monitoring the issue and has taken action on content, pages, or groups that are breaking the rules set up by the social media platform.

Myanmar: Facebook promotes violent content against coup protestors, study reveals

Four protesters and at least two officers were killed as Myanmar soldiers battled an anti-junta civilian militia with small arms and grenades in the country's second city Tuesday, authorities and military sources said.

Fighting has flared across Myanmar since the February coup as people form "defence forces" to battle a brutal military crackdown on dissent, but clashes have largely been restricted to rural areas.

Acting on a tip-off, security forces raided a house in Mandalay's Chan Mya Tharsi township on Tuesday morning, the junta's information team said in a statement, and were met with small arms fire and grenades.

Two officers were killed during the raid, military sources told AFP, and at least ten were wounded.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-suu-kyi-back-in-junta-court-on-sedition-charges-393182" hreflang="en">Myanmar's Suu Kyi back in junta court on sedition charges</a>

Four "terrorists" were killed and eight arrested in possession of homemade mines, hand grenades and small arms, a junta spokesman said in a statement.

"We could hear artillery shooting even though our house is far from that place," a Mandalay resident told AFP.

Another four members of the self-defence group were killed when the car they were attempting to flee in crashed, the spokesman said, without providing details.

The United States' embassy in Yangon said on Twitter it was "tracking reports of ongoing fighting in Mandalay... We are disturbed by the military escalation and urgently call for a cessation of violence."

The mass uprising against the military putsch that toppled the government of Aung San Suu Kyi has been met with a brutal crackdown that has killed more than 870 civilians, according to a local monitoring group.

As well as the rise of local self-defence forces, analysts believe hundreds of anti-coup protesters from Myanmar's towns and cities have trekked into insurgent-held areas to receive military training.

But part-time fighters know the odds are stacked against them in any confrontation with Myanmar's military -- one of Southeast Asia's most battle-hardened and brutal.

Four protesters and at least two officers were killed as Myanmar soldiers battled an anti-junta civilian militia with small arms and grenades in the country's second city Tuesday, authorities and military sources said.

Four protesters and at least two officers were killed as Myanmar soldiers battled an anti-junta civilian militia with small arms and grenades in the country's second city Tuesday, authorities and military sources said. Fighting has flared across Myanmar since the February coup as people form "defence forces" to battle a brutal military crackdown on dissent, but clashes have largely been restricted to rural areas. Acting on a tip-off, security forces raided a house in Mandalay's Chan Mya Tharsi township on Tuesday morning, the junta's information team said in a statement, and were met with small arms fire and grenades. Two officers were killed during the raid, military sources told AFP, and at least ten were wounded. Also read | Myanmar's Suu Kyi back in junta court on sedition charges Four "terrorists" were killed and eight arrested in possession of homemade mines, hand grenades and small arms, a junta spokesman said in a statement. "We could hear artillery shooting even though our house is far from that place," a Mandalay resident told AFP. Another four members of the self-defence group were killed when the car they were attempting to flee in crashed, the spokesman said, without providing details. The United States' embassy in Yangon said on Twitter it was "tracking reports of ongoing fighting in Mandalay... We are disturbed by the military escalation and urgently call for a cessation of violence." The mass uprising against the military putsch that toppled the government of Aung San Suu Kyi has been met with a brutal crackdown that has killed more than 870 civilians, according to a local monitoring group. As well as the rise of local self-defence forces, analysts believe hundreds of anti-coup protesters from Myanmar's towns and cities have trekked into insurgent-held areas to receive military training. But part-time fighters know the odds are stacked against them in any confrontation with Myanmar's military -- one of Southeast Asia's most battle-hardened and brutal.

Six killed in clashes between Myanmar Army and anti-junta militia

Myanmar's junta chief on Tuesday thanked Russia, a major weapons supplier to the troubled Southeast Asian country, for strengthening the army which seized power in a coup earlier this year.

Myanmar has been in turmoil since the military overthrew civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi and her National League for Democracy (NLD) government in February.

Russia has backed its ally and warned the West against sanctioning the junta.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/six-killed-in-clashes-between-myanmar-army-and-anti-junta-militia-393183" hreflang="en">Six killed in clashes between Myanmar army and anti-junta militia</a>

"Thanks to Russia, our army has become one of the strongest in the region," Russian news agency TASS cited Min Aung Hlaing as telling Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu during a meeting in Moscow.&nbsp;

The friendship between Russia and Myanmar is becoming "stronger and stronger", the junta leader said, according to his comments translated into Russian.&nbsp;

"Myanmar for us is a time-tested strategic partner and reliable ally," Shoigu said, adding that military cooperation is an "important component" of Russia-Myanmar relations.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-suu-kyi-back-in-junta-court-on-sedition-charges-393182" hreflang="en">Myanmar's Suu Kyi back in junta court on sedition charges</a>

"We are committed to continue making efforts to strengthen bilateral ties," the Russian defence minister said.&nbsp;

Min Aung Hlaing is in Moscow for a three-day international security conference which kicked off Tuesday and brings together defence officials from across the globe.

It is the junta chief's second known trip abroad since he seized power.

On Monday, he met with Russian Security Council chief Nikolai Patrushev, with the two agreeing to improve ties between their two countries.

Min Aung Hlaing then met the head of state arms exporter Rosoboronexport, Alexander Mikheyev, to discuss "potential military technical cooperation," a junta spokesperson said.

Since February, the junta's brutal crackdown on dissent has left at least 870 civilians dead, according to a local monitoring group.&nbsp;

Although the Kremlin has said it was "concerned" by the civilian casualties, Moscow has sought to develop ties with the junta.&nbsp;

In March, a Russian deputy defence minister joined an annual parade showcasing Myanmar's military prowess, including Russian-made jets, tanks and helicopters.

Myanmar's junta chief on Tuesday thanked Russia, a major weapons supplier to the troubled Southeast Asian country, for strengthening the army which seized power in a coup earlier this year.

Myanmar's junta chief on Tuesday thanked Russia, a major weapons supplier to the troubled Southeast Asian country, for strengthening the army which seized power in a coup earlier this year. Myanmar has been in turmoil since the military overthrew civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi and her National League for Democracy (NLD) government in February. Russia has backed its ally and warned the West against sanctioning the junta. Also read | Six killed in clashes between Myanmar army and anti-junta militia "Thanks to Russia, our army has become one of the strongest in the region," Russian news agency TASS cited Min Aung Hlaing as telling Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu during a meeting in Moscow. The friendship between Russia and Myanmar is becoming "stronger and stronger", the junta leader said, according to his comments translated into Russian. "Myanmar for us is a time-tested strategic partner and reliable ally," Shoigu said, adding that military cooperation is an "important component" of Russia-Myanmar relations. Also read | Myanmar's Suu Kyi back in junta court on sedition charges "We are committed to continue making efforts to strengthen bilateral ties," the Russian defence minister said. Min Aung Hlaing is in Moscow for a three-day international security conference which kicked off Tuesday and brings together defence officials from across the globe. It is the junta chief's second known trip abroad since he seized power. On Monday, he met with Russian Security Council chief Nikolai Patrushev, with the two agreeing to improve ties between their two countries. Min Aung Hlaing then met the head of state arms exporter Rosoboronexport, Alexander Mikheyev, to discuss "potential military technical cooperation," a junta spokesperson said. Since February, the junta's brutal crackdown on dissent has left at least 870 civilians dead, according to a local monitoring group. Although the Kremlin has said it was "concerned" by the civilian casualties, Moscow has sought to develop ties with the junta. In March, a Russian deputy defence minister joined an annual parade showcasing Myanmar's military prowess, including Russian-made jets, tanks and helicopters.

Myanmar junta leader thanks Russia for boosting military

Amid a growing political crisis, the West African regional bloc Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has suspended Mali's membership in response to last week's military coup.

West African bloc ECOWAS suspends Mali's membership over military coup

In the wake of the military coup and deepening financial crisis, millions of Myanmar citizen will go hungry in the coming months, the World Food Programme has warned.

Close to 6.4 million will face a severe hunger crisis in the country which is already suffering from political turmoil since the February 1 coup.

Rising 'hunger and desperation is not new in Myanmar, over and above the 2.8 million people considered to be food insecure in Myanmar before the military takeover.&nbsp;

“More and more poor people have lost their jobs and are unable to afford food. A concerted response is required now to alleviate immediate suffering, and to prevent an alarming deterioration in food security.”, said WFP Myanmar Country Director Stephen Anderson.

According to the report provided by the World Food Programme, price increases have been particularly high in border states including Rakhine, Kachin and Chin. &nbsp;

“In Kachin state, rice prices have risen by up to 43 per cent in some townships and cooking oil by 32 per cent”, said WFP.“The price of fuel has increased by roughly 30 per cent nationwide.” &nbsp;

Myanmar’s army seized power from the democratically elected civilian government on Feb.1, plunging the Southeast Asian nation into turmoil and cracking down on mass protests and a nationwide civil disobedience movement with brutal force, killing more than 700 people, a monitoring group said.

The crisis has brought the banking system to a standstill, shuttering many branches, leaving businesses unable to make payments and customers unable to withdraw cash.

The coronavirus pandemic took a heavy toll on the economy, which had been growing as it emerged from decades of isolation and financial mismanagement under former military governments.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In the wake of the military coup and deepening financial crisis, millions of Myanmar citizen will go hungry in the coming months, the World Food Programme has warned.

In the wake of the military coup and deepening financial crisis, millions of Myanmar citizen will go hungry in the coming months, the World Food Programme has warned. Close to 6.4 million will face a severe hunger crisis in the country which is already suffering from political turmoil since the February 1 coup. Rising 'hunger and desperation is not new in Myanmar, over and above the 2.8 million people considered to be food insecure in Myanmar before the military takeover. “More and more poor people have lost their jobs and are unable to afford food. A concerted response is required now to alleviate immediate suffering, and to prevent an alarming deterioration in food security.”, said WFP Myanmar Country Director Stephen Anderson. According to the report provided by the World Food Programme, price increases have been particularly high in border states including Rakhine, Kachin and Chin. “In Kachin state, rice prices have risen by up to 43 per cent in some townships and cooking oil by 32 per cent”, said WFP.“The price of fuel has increased by roughly 30 per cent nationwide.” Myanmar’s army seized power from the democratically elected civilian government on Feb.1, plunging the Southeast Asian nation into turmoil and cracking down on mass protests and a nationwide civil disobedience movement with brutal force, killing more than 700 people, a monitoring group said. The crisis has brought the banking system to a standstill, shuttering many branches, leaving businesses unable to make payments and customers unable to withdraw cash. The coronavirus pandemic took a heavy toll on the economy, which had been growing as it emerged from decades of isolation and financial mismanagement under former military governments. (With inputs from agencies)

Millions face hunger in Myanmar as food shortage deepens

Tokyo could freeze all aid to Myanmar, Japan's foreign minister warned in an interview published Friday, as the military junta continues to use lethal force against opponents of its coup.

Japan is a top donor to Myanmar, and has already suspended new aid after the military ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

But Toshimitsu Motegi, speaking to the Nikkei newspaper, said the freeze could be expanded.

"We don't want to do that at all, but we have to state firmly that it will be difficult to continue under these circumstances," he told the newspaper.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/how-myanmars-military-moved-in-on-the-telecoms-sector-to-spy-on-citizens-386071" hreflang="en">How Myanmar's military moved in on the telecoms sector to spy on citizens</a>

"As a country that supported Myanmar's democratisation in various ways, and as a friend, we must represent the international community and convey that clearly."

Japan announced in March it was halting all new aid to impoverished Myanmar in response to the coup, though it has not imposed the individual sanctions on military and police commanders implemented by some other countries.

Motegi has said Japan is Myanmar's largest provider of economic assistance, and Tokyo has long-standing relations with the country's military.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-vote-on-call-to-stop-arms-supply-to-myanmar-postponed-385757" hreflang="en">UN vote on call to stop arms supply to Myanmar postponed&nbsp;</a>

According to the Nikkei, Japan provided $1.74 billion in development aid to Myanmar in fiscal 2019, more than any other country with disclosed figures. China's aid figures are not public.

More than 800 people have been killed in Myanmar in unrest since the military ousted Suu Kyi in a February 1 coup.

A Japanese journalist arrested covering the aftermath of the coup was released last week and returned to Tokyo.

His release came as Japan said it had offered Myanmar $4 million in emergency aid through the World Food Programme.

Speaking in Tokyo on Friday, the journalist Yuki Kitazumi called on Japan's government to have the "courage" to use its leverage with Myanmar's military.

"People in Myanmar expect and hope that the Japanese government will take concrete action," he told a press conference.

Kitazumi described meeting political prisoners who told him they and others were being tortured in custody, including beatings, and being kept awake around the clock.

"I hope the power of the Japanese government that got me released will be used for people in Myanmar," he said.

Tokyo has called for Suu Kyi's release and the restoration of democracy, and Motegi told the Nikkei that Tokyo was continuing to hold dialogue with the junta.

"We have a greater variety of channels in Myanmar, including with the military, than Europe and the US," he said.

Tokyo could freeze all aid to Myanmar, Japan's foreign minister warned in an interview published Friday, as the military junta continues to use lethal force against opponents of its coup.

Tokyo could freeze all aid to Myanmar, Japan's foreign minister warned in an interview published Friday, as the military junta continues to use lethal force against opponents of its coup. Japan is a top donor to Myanmar, and has already suspended new aid after the military ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi. But Toshimitsu Motegi, speaking to the Nikkei newspaper, said the freeze could be expanded. "We don't want to do that at all, but we have to state firmly that it will be difficult to continue under these circumstances," he told the newspaper. Also read | How Myanmar's military moved in on the telecoms sector to spy on citizens "As a country that supported Myanmar's democratisation in various ways, and as a friend, we must represent the international community and convey that clearly." Japan announced in March it was halting all new aid to impoverished Myanmar in response to the coup, though it has not imposed the individual sanctions on military and police commanders implemented by some other countries. Motegi has said Japan is Myanmar's largest provider of economic assistance, and Tokyo has long-standing relations with the country's military. Also read | UN vote on call to stop arms supply to Myanmar postponed According to the Nikkei, Japan provided $1.74 billion in development aid to Myanmar in fiscal 2019, more than any other country with disclosed figures. China's aid figures are not public. More than 800 people have been killed in Myanmar in unrest since the military ousted Suu Kyi in a February 1 coup. A Japanese journalist arrested covering the aftermath of the coup was released last week and returned to Tokyo. His release came as Japan said it had offered Myanmar $4 million in emergency aid through the World Food Programme. Speaking in Tokyo on Friday, the journalist Yuki Kitazumi called on Japan's government to have the "courage" to use its leverage with Myanmar's military. "People in Myanmar expect and hope that the Japanese government will take concrete action," he told a press conference. Kitazumi described meeting political prisoners who told him they and others were being tortured in custody, including beatings, and being kept awake around the clock. "I hope the power of the Japanese government that got me released will be used for people in Myanmar," he said. Tokyo has called for Suu Kyi's release and the restoration of democracy, and Motegi told the Nikkei that Tokyo was continuing to hold dialogue with the junta. "We have a greater variety of channels in Myanmar, including with the military, than Europe and the US," he said.

Japan could freeze all aid to Myanmar, foreign minister warns

It has been 100 days since Myanmar's military seized power by ousting the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi, but the junta has been able to just maintain the pretence of control. The illusion is sustained mainly by its partially successful efforts to shut down independent media and to keep the streets clear of large demonstrations by employing lethal force.

Myanmar marks 100 days of military coup, Junta struggles to maintain power

Myanmar's detained leader Aung San Suu Kyi is all set to appear in person at her next court hearing on May 24. This will be Suu Kyi's first public appearance since she was detained by the Military Junta on 1 February.

Myanmar: Detained leader Aung San Suu Kyi to appear in court in person on May 24

Myanmar's military government completes 100 days after coup

Continuing the struggle to free the country from military rule, thousands of anti-coup protestors marched on Myanmar streets on Sunday calling for a “spring revolution”.

As Myanmar entered its fourth month since the military coup, demonstrators gathered on a street corner in Yangon to demand a "spring revolution" and asked for freedom from the military regime.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bomb-blasts-flash-protests-as-myanmar-enters-fourth-month-under-junta-382005" hreflang="en">Bomb blasts, flash protests as Myanmar enters fourth month under junta</a>

Young demonstrators waved the three-finger salute as a sign of protest and chanted “To bring down the military dictatorship is our cause!”

As the demonstrations spread in different parts of the country, the security forces started chasing down the young demonstrators, as per local media reports.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-coup-protesters-hold-flash-marches-in-yangon-for-democracy-382087">Watch |</a>

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"They are arresting every young person they see," a source in Yangon was quoted by AFP, who was in hiding and was later trapped.

The day also witnessed several bomb blasts across different parts of the capital city — the frequency of bomb blasts has increased manifolds in the last few months in Yangon.

According to local media, security forces&nbsp;also opened fire on one of the gatherings, leading to the death of at least one young demonstrator.

"He was shot in the head and died immediately," a protestor told AFP after hiding his friend’s dead body. "They are asking for his dead body, but we will not give them... We will have his funeral today."

Continuing the struggle to free the country from military rule, thousands of anti-coup protestors marched on Myanmar streets on Sunday calling for a “spring revolution”.

Continuing the struggle to free the country from military rule, thousands of anti-coup protestors marched on Myanmar streets on Sunday calling for a “spring revolution”. As Myanmar entered its fourth month since the military coup, demonstrators gathered on a street corner in Yangon to demand a "spring revolution" and asked for freedom from the military regime. Also read | Bomb blasts, flash protests as Myanmar enters fourth month under junta Young demonstrators waved the three-finger salute as a sign of protest and chanted “To bring down the military dictatorship is our cause!” As the demonstrations spread in different parts of the country, the security forces started chasing down the young demonstrators, as per local media reports. Watch | "They are arresting every young person they see," a source in Yangon was quoted by AFP, who was in hiding and was later trapped. The day also witnessed several bomb blasts across different parts of the capital city — the frequency of bomb blasts has increased manifolds in the last few months in Yangon. According to local media, security forces also opened fire on one of the gatherings, leading to the death of at least one young demonstrator. "He was shot in the head and died immediately," a protestor told AFP after hiding his friend’s dead body. "They are asking for his dead body, but we will not give them... We will have his funeral today."

Myanmar's young demonstrators march to demand 'spring revolution'

Doctors and medical workers in Myanmar have urged for help as they believe the military personnel specifically target civilians to lure the doctors into their trap.

In a recent incident, a man and his wife were shot by the Myanmar military and as the doctors readied themselves to help the couple seeking help on the street, the locals warned that soldiers might be waiting nearby.

"I felt like they were ambushing us," a rescuer was quoted by The Guardian. "I think she would have survived if we were able to pick her up as soon as it happened."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-security-forces-use-rifle-grenades-kill-80-monitoring-group-376701" hreflang="en">Myanmar security forces use rifle grenades, kill 80: Monitoring group</a>

The doctors had to, reportedly, wait for almost an hour to see the soldiers finally retrieving.

Doctors in Myanmar have told the Observer that they are routinely targeted by the military in violent manners, and the military purposely tries to prevent them from treating victims of the deadly clashes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/10-myanmar-policemen-killed-in-attack-by-ethnic-armies-opposed-to-junta-report-376635" hreflang="en">10 Myanmar policemen killed in attack by ethnic armies opposed to junta: Report&nbsp;</a>

They have also revealed that the military used to shoot at passing-by ambulances, raid hospitals, medical centres and violently attack medical personnel too, which sometimes also led to their death.

Government doctors are also being targeted and prosecuted for participating in anti-coup protests. Some doctors have also been picked up from their medical centres during their night shifts and are then returned back to their house after questioning.

"If you are detained today, your body will be returned tomorrow with torture marks or something like that," a Yangon-based doctor told the Guardian.

Doctors and medical workers in Myanmar have urged for help as they believe the military personnel specifically target civilians to lure the doctors into their trap.

Doctors and medical workers in Myanmar have urged for help as they believe the military personnel specifically target civilians to lure the doctors into their trap. In a recent incident, a man and his wife were shot by the Myanmar military and as the doctors readied themselves to help the couple seeking help on the street, the locals warned that soldiers might be waiting nearby. "I felt like they were ambushing us," a rescuer was quoted by The Guardian. "I think she would have survived if we were able to pick her up as soon as it happened." Also read | Myanmar security forces use rifle grenades, kill 80: Monitoring group The doctors had to, reportedly, wait for almost an hour to see the soldiers finally retrieving. Doctors in Myanmar have told the Observer that they are routinely targeted by the military in violent manners, and the military purposely tries to prevent them from treating victims of the deadly clashes. Also read | 10 Myanmar policemen killed in attack by ethnic armies opposed to junta: Report They have also revealed that the military used to shoot at passing-by ambulances, raid hospitals, medical centres and violently attack medical personnel too, which sometimes also led to their death. Government doctors are also being targeted and prosecuted for participating in anti-coup protests. Some doctors have also been picked up from their medical centres during their night shifts and are then returned back to their house after questioning. "If you are detained today, your body will be returned tomorrow with torture marks or something like that," a Yangon-based doctor told the Guardian.

Doctors become Myanmar military's targets for helping injured locals

When the Coup hit Myanmar there has been an internet outage for the last 2 months. And, the youth in the country are now fighting the military junta's internet shutdown, with what has been described as an explosive underground printed newsletter, that is then circulated with other members of the society for them to read. The underground newsletter has an edgy name called Molotov so that it can appeal to young people more.

Myanmar Youth fight Junta's Internet Shutdown

Niger's newly-elected president Mohamed Bazoum is set to be sworn into office on Friday, a democratic watershed overshadowed by jihadist violence and alleged coup bid two days ago.

The inauguration will mark the first-ever transition between elected presidents in Niger's six decades of independence from France -- a historic moment that has been widely praised.

But the Sahel country's instability and insecurity have been deeply underscored in the runup to Friday's ceremony.

In the early hours of Wednesday, after gunfire broke out near the presidency in the capital Niamey, the government announced an "attempted coup" had been thwarted -- a "cowardly and regressive act which sought to threaten democracy and the state of law".&nbsp;&nbsp;

The alleged coup leader is an air force officer in charge of security at Niamey's air base and is being "actively sought", a source within Niger's security services told AFP on Wednesday.

Another security source said "a few members of the army" had been behind the coup but had been prevented from approaching the presidential palace by the elite Presidential Guard.

"Some arrests" were made, the source said.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres was among worried foreign leaders, calling the armed forces "to strictly abide by their constitutional obligations".&nbsp;

- World's poorest country -

Bazoum, 60, &nbsp;is a former interior minister and right-hand man of outgoing president Mahamadou Issoufou, 68, who has voluntarily stepped down after two five-year terms.

Bazoum won a runoff vote for the presidency in February with 55.6 percent of the ballot, according to official results contested by his opponent, Mahamane Ousmane.

But his most formidable rival, former premier Hama Amadou, was banned from running because of a conviction for baby trafficking -- a charge he has branded politically motivated.

Niger is the poorest country in the world, according to the benchmark of the UN's 189-nation Human Development Index (HDI).

The West African nation has suffered four coups in its history, most recently a February 2010 putsch which toppled then president Mamadou Tandja.

It has also been ravaged by repeated jihadist attacks, from insurgents who have advanced from Mali in the west and Nigeria in the southeast.

More than 300 people have been killed in three attacks in the west since the start of the year. 
&nbsp;

Niger's newly-elected president Mohamed Bazoum is set to be sworn into office on Friday, a democratic watershed overshadowed by jihadist violence and alleged coup bid two days ago.

Niger's newly-elected president Mohamed Bazoum is set to be sworn into office on Friday, a democratic watershed overshadowed by jihadist violence and alleged coup bid two days ago. The inauguration will mark the first-ever transition between elected presidents in Niger's six decades of independence from France -- a historic moment that has been widely praised. But the Sahel country's instability and insecurity have been deeply underscored in the runup to Friday's ceremony. In the early hours of Wednesday, after gunfire broke out near the presidency in the capital Niamey, the government announced an "attempted coup" had been thwarted -- a "cowardly and regressive act which sought to threaten democracy and the state of law". The alleged coup leader is an air force officer in charge of security at Niamey's air base and is being "actively sought", a source within Niger's security services told AFP on Wednesday. Another security source said "a few members of the army" had been behind the coup but had been prevented from approaching the presidential palace by the elite Presidential Guard. "Some arrests" were made, the source said. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres was among worried foreign leaders, calling the armed forces "to strictly abide by their constitutional obligations". - World's poorest country - Bazoum, 60, is a former interior minister and right-hand man of outgoing president Mahamadou Issoufou, 68, who has voluntarily stepped down after two five-year terms. Bazoum won a runoff vote for the presidency in February with 55.6 percent of the ballot, according to official results contested by his opponent, Mahamane Ousmane. But his most formidable rival, former premier Hama Amadou, was banned from running because of a conviction for baby trafficking -- a charge he has branded politically motivated. Niger is the poorest country in the world, according to the benchmark of the UN's 189-nation Human Development Index (HDI). The West African nation has suffered four coups in its history, most recently a February 2010 putsch which toppled then president Mamadou Tandja. It has also been ravaged by repeated jihadist attacks, from insurgents who have advanced from Mali in the west and Nigeria in the southeast. More than 300 people have been killed in three attacks in the west since the start of the year.

Niger president to be sworn in after 'attempted coup'

After over two months since the military coup in Myanmar, the country's detained civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi has been slapped with another charge on Thursday under the official secrets law. Suu Kyi is facing a total of five charges, including the latest one.

Myanmar: Aung San Suu Kyi faces new charge under official secrets law

Warning of a risk of civil war and an imminent bloodbath in Myanmar, the UN envoy has implored the security council to take action on the escalating crisis in the country. More than 520 people have died across Myanmar in daily demonstrations as the hunter continues to violently repress pro-democracy protests.

UNSC envoy warns of 'civil war, bloodbath' in Myanmar

Activists in Myanmar have been protesting against the military coup since it overtook the country’s establishments on February 1. In the aftermath of violent face-offs which have killed over 500 people in the country so far, activists are now finding creative ways to make their voices heard.

Now, protesters have taken up “garbage strikes” to oppose the military rule. Demonstrators are leaving garbage on the main streets and intersections, urging everyone to do the same.

On Monday alone, at least 14 civilians were killed by the military, as reported by the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP). Out of these, eight were killed in Yangon’s South Dagon district. Security forces were seen firing a heavier calibre weapon than is common on Monday, while protesters hid for their lives behind a barricade.

Many reports suggested that grenade launchers were being used by the military on protesters. State news agencies claimed that “riot weapons” were being used by security forces to scatter the protesters, who they referred to as “violent terrorists”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/myanmar-western-measures-have-had-little-effect-on-military-junta-374146" hreflang="en">Myanmar: Western measures have had little effect on military junta</a>

Locals in the South Dagon region claimed that security forces had increased the frequency of crackdowns in the area, increasing fears of more fatalities.

A resident told Reuters that authorities were firing all night and that they had found a badly burned body on the street in the morning.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/very-concerned-over-civilian-casualties-in-myanmar-says-russia-374076" hreflang="en">'Very concerned' over civilian casualties in Myanmar, says Russia</a>

United Nations Secretary-General Antonia Guterres recently urged Myanmar’s generals to end the violence against protesters in the country. "This garbage strike is a strike to oppose the junta… Everyone can join”, a poster being circulated on social media claimed.

On the other hand, junta loudspeakers on Monday were urging residents in Yangon to dispose of their garbage properly.

Activists in Myanmar have been protesting against the military coup since it overtook the country’s establishments on February 1. In the aftermath of violent face-offs which have killed over 500 people in the country so far, activists are now finding creative ways to make their voices heard.

Activists in Myanmar have been protesting against the military coup since it overtook the country’s establishments on February 1. In the aftermath of violent face-offs which have killed over 500 people in the country so far, activists are now finding creative ways to make their voices heard. Now, protesters have taken up “garbage strikes” to oppose the military rule. Demonstrators are leaving garbage on the main streets and intersections, urging everyone to do the same. On Monday alone, at least 14 civilians were killed by the military, as reported by the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP). Out of these, eight were killed in Yangon’s South Dagon district. Security forces were seen firing a heavier calibre weapon than is common on Monday, while protesters hid for their lives behind a barricade. Many reports suggested that grenade launchers were being used by the military on protesters. State news agencies claimed that “riot weapons” were being used by security forces to scatter the protesters, who they referred to as “violent terrorists”. Also read: Myanmar: Western measures have had little effect on military junta Locals in the South Dagon region claimed that security forces had increased the frequency of crackdowns in the area, increasing fears of more fatalities. A resident told Reuters that authorities were firing all night and that they had found a badly burned body on the street in the morning. Also read: 'Very concerned' over civilian casualties in Myanmar, says Russia United Nations Secretary-General Antonia Guterres recently urged Myanmar’s generals to end the violence against protesters in the country. "This garbage strike is a strike to oppose the junta… Everyone can join”, a poster being circulated on social media claimed. On the other hand, junta loudspeakers on Monday were urging residents in Yangon to dispose of their garbage properly.

Protesters in Myanmar launch 'garbage strike' as death toll crosses 500

Myanmar security forces killed 114 people on Saturday (March 27), as per news reports and witnesses. This makes Saturday&nbsp;the most violent and horrific day since the military coup that toppled civilian government headed by Aung San Suu Kyi. These killings have come on Armed Forces Day. Military jets also launched airstrikes in territory held by Karen ethnic minority.

On Saturday protesters turned out in Yangon, Mandalay and other towns in the country as they have almost each day since the military coup that took place on February 1.&nbsp;

At least 40 people, including a 13-year-old girl, were killed in Mandalay, and at least 27 people were killed in Yangon, Myanmar Now said. A boy as young as five was earlier reported among the dead in Mandalay but there were conflicting reports later that he may have survived. Another 13-year-old was among the dead in the central Sagaing region.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/gunshots-fired-at-us-cultural-centre-in-myanmar-says-embassy-373689">Gunshots fired at US cultural centre in Myanmar, says embassy&nbsp;</a>

A military spokesman did not respond to calls from Reuters seeking comment on the killings by security forces, the air strikes or the insurgent attack on its post.

"They are killing us like birds or chickens, even in our homes," said Thu Ya Zaw in the central town of Myingyan, where at least two protesters were killed. "We will keep protesting regardless... We must fight until the junta falls."

Strong international backlash

"On Myanmar's Armed Forces Day, security forces are murdering unarmed civilians..." said US Ambassador Thomas Vajda in his statement.

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"On Myanmar’s Armed Forces Day, security forces are murdering unarmed civilians, including children, the very people they swore to protect. This bloodshed is horrifying. These are not the actions of a professional military or police force." Full statement by Ambassador Vajda: <a href="https://t.co/7Gh2OTXEOe">pic.twitter.com/7Gh2OTXEOe</a>
— U.S. Embassy Burma (@USEmbassyBurma) <a href="https://twitter.com/USEmbassyBurma/status/1375791495316393987?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"Today’s killing of unarmed civilians, including children, marks a new low," he said while retweeting a statement from the British Ambassador. "We will work with our international partners to end this senseless violence, hold those responsible to account, and secure a path back to democracy." said British foreign minister Dominic Raab as he retweeted statement from British Ambassador in Myanmar

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Today’s killing of unarmed civilians, including children, marks a new low. We will work with our international partners to end this senseless violence, hold those responsible to account, and secure a path back to democracy. <a href="https://t.co/PfHZ3xipzt">https://t.co/PfHZ3xipzt</a>
— Dominic Raab (@DominicRaab) <a href="https://twitter.com/DominicRaab/status/1375817565180731396?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"Shocking violence against #Myanmar’s people by its military on #ArmedForcesDay. We are receiving reports of scores killed, incl. children, 100s injured across 40 locations, &amp; mass arrests. This violence is compounding the illegitimacy of the coup &amp; the culpability of its leaders," tweeted United Nations Human Rights office.

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Shocking violence against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Myanmar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Myanmar</a>’s people by its military on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ArmedForcesDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ArmedForcesDay</a>. We are receiving reports of scores killed, incl. children, 100s injured across 40 locations, &amp; mass arrests. This violence is compounding the illegitimacy of the coup &amp; the culpability of its leaders. <a href="https://t.co/ifgpXSqG8e">pic.twitter.com/ifgpXSqG8e</a>
— UN Human Rights (@UNHumanRights) <a href="https://twitter.com/UNHumanRights/status/1375798480468389888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"Russia is a true friend"

Senior general Min Aung Hlaing, junta leader called Russia a "true friend" on Armed Forces Day. He was speaking at the parade in capital Naypitaw

Russia's deputy defence minister Alexander Fomin attended the parade in Naypyitaw, having met senior junta leaders a day earlier.

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In his speech, Min Aung Hlaing reiterated promise to hold elections, without giving any time-frame.

"The army seeks to join hands with the entire nation to safeguard democracy," he said in a live broadcast on state television. "Violent acts that affect stability and security in order to make demands are inappropriate."

The military has said it took power because November elections won by Suu Kyi's party were fraudulent, an assertion dismissed by the country's election commission. Suu Kyi remains in detention at an undisclosed location and many other figures in her party are also in custody.

(With Reuters inputs)

Myanmar security forces killed 114 people on Saturday (March 27), as per news reports and witnesses. This makes Saturday the most violent and horrific day since the military coup that toppled civilian government headed by Aung San Suu Kyi.

Myanmar security forces killed 114 people on Saturday (March 27), as per news reports and witnesses. This makes Saturday the most violent and horrific day since the military coup that toppled civilian government headed by Aung San Suu Kyi. These killings have come on Armed Forces Day. Military jets also launched airstrikes in territory held by Karen ethnic minority. On Saturday protesters turned out in Yangon, Mandalay and other towns in the country as they have almost each day since the military coup that took place on February 1. At least 40 people, including a 13-year-old girl, were killed in Mandalay, and at least 27 people were killed in Yangon, Myanmar Now said. A boy as young as five was earlier reported among the dead in Mandalay but there were conflicting reports later that he may have survived. Another 13-year-old was among the dead in the central Sagaing region. Also Read | Gunshots fired at US cultural centre in Myanmar, says embassy A military spokesman did not respond to calls from Reuters seeking comment on the killings by security forces, the air strikes or the insurgent attack on its post. "They are killing us like birds or chickens, even in our homes," said Thu Ya Zaw in the central town of Myingyan, where at least two protesters were killed. "We will keep protesting regardless... We must fight until the junta falls." Strong international backlash "On Myanmar's Armed Forces Day, security forces are murdering unarmed civilians..." said US Ambassador Thomas Vajda in his statement. "On Myanmar’s Armed Forces Day, security forces are murdering unarmed civilians, including children, the very people they swore to protect. This bloodshed is horrifying. These are not the actions of a professional military or police force." Full statement by Ambassador Vajda: pic.twitter.com/7Gh2OTXEOe — U.S. Embassy Burma (@USEmbassyBurma) March 27, 2021 × "Today’s killing of unarmed civilians, including children, marks a new low," he said while retweeting a statement from the British Ambassador. "We will work with our international partners to end this senseless violence, hold those responsible to account, and secure a path back to democracy." said British foreign minister Dominic Raab as he retweeted statement from British Ambassador in Myanmar Today’s killing of unarmed civilians, including children, marks a new low. We will work with our international partners to end this senseless violence, hold those responsible to account, and secure a path back to democracy. https://t.co/PfHZ3xipzt — Dominic Raab (@DominicRaab) March 27, 2021 × "Shocking violence against #Myanmar’s people by its military on #ArmedForcesDay. We are receiving reports of scores killed, incl. children, 100s injured across 40 locations, & mass arrests. This violence is compounding the illegitimacy of the coup & the culpability of its leaders," tweeted United Nations Human Rights office. Shocking violence against #Myanmar’s people by its military on #ArmedForcesDay. We are receiving reports of scores killed, incl. children, 100s injured across 40 locations, & mass arrests. This violence is compounding the illegitimacy of the coup & the culpability of its leaders. pic.twitter.com/ifgpXSqG8e — UN Human Rights (@UNHumanRights) March 27, 2021 × "Russia is a true friend" Senior general Min Aung Hlaing, junta leader called Russia a "true friend" on Armed Forces Day. He was speaking at the parade in capital Naypitaw Russia's deputy defence minister Alexander Fomin attended the parade in Naypyitaw, having met senior junta leaders a day earlier. × In his speech, Min Aung Hlaing reiterated promise to hold elections, without giving any time-frame. "The army seeks to join hands with the entire nation to safeguard democracy," he said in a live broadcast on state television. "Violent acts that affect stability and security in order to make demands are inappropriate." The military has said it took power because November elections won by Suu Kyi's party were fraudulent, an assertion dismissed by the country's election commission. Suu Kyi remains in detention at an undisclosed location and many other figures in her party are also in custody. (With Reuters inputs)

Myanmar: Over 100 protesters killed by security forces in single day

The crackdown in Myanmar is turning ugly. A 14-year-old boy has been shot dead. Foreign citizens are being investigated & fresh charges of bribery have been filed against Aung San Suu Kyi. WION's Molly Gambhir gets you a report.

Gravitas: Myanmar crackdown turns ugly

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