Britain on Monday added three Myamar entities to its sanctions list. Pearl and timber firms and `State Administration Council` are the two entities. The former is state-owned while that latter runs functions of the state. Notice about the sanctions has been posted on British givernemnt website.

Britain said there were reasonable grounds to believe the two state-owned enterprises provided funds to the military junta, and said the State Administration Council was responsible for, or had supported, the undermining of democracy in Myanmar.

Britain, the US and other Western states have imposed several sanctions in waves. This has been done in an effort to increase pressure on the military junta.

The military junta toppled the civilian government headed by Aung San Suu Kyi in a coup on February 1.

“Alongside our allies, we are placing sanctions on companies linked to Myanmar’s military junta, targeting the finances of this illegitimate regime," foreign minister Dominic Raab said.

“The military has continued its subversion of democracy and brutal killing of civilians. We will continue to hold the Junta to account and sanction those responsible, until democracy is restored.”

The junta`s allegations of irregularities in a November election were rejected by the electoral commission. 
Britain also strengthened its advice to businesses, stressing that they must "undertake enhanced supply chain due diligence and should not enter into trading relationships that benefit the Myanmar military."

(With inputs from agencies)

Britain on Monday added three Myamar entities to its sanctions list. Pearl and timber firms and `State Administration Council` are the two entities. The former is state-owned while that latter runs functions of the state.

Britain on Monday added three Myamar entities to its sanctions list. Pearl and timber firms and `State Administration Council` are the two entities. The former is state-owned while that latter runs functions of the state. Notice about the sanctions has been posted on British givernemnt website. Britain said there were reasonable grounds to believe the two state-owned enterprises provided funds to the military junta, and said the State Administration Council was responsible for, or had supported, the undermining of democracy in Myanmar. Britain, the US and other Western states have imposed several sanctions in waves. This has been done in an effort to increase pressure on the military junta. The military junta toppled the civilian government headed by Aung San Suu Kyi in a coup on February 1. “Alongside our allies, we are placing sanctions on companies linked to Myanmar’s military junta, targeting the finances of this illegitimate regime," foreign minister Dominic Raab said. “The military has continued its subversion of democracy and brutal killing of civilians. We will continue to hold the Junta to account and sanction those responsible, until democracy is restored.” The junta`s allegations of irregularities in a November election were rejected by the electoral commission. Britain also strengthened its advice to businesses, stressing that they must "undertake enhanced supply chain due diligence and should not enter into trading relationships that benefit the Myanmar military." (With inputs from agencies)

Britain tightens sanctions on Myanmar military junta

Myanmar military junta chief arrived in Moscow on Sunday to attend a security conference. This marks his second known trip abroad since military coup in Myanmar.

Myanmar military toppled civilian government led by Aung Sab Suu Kyi in a coup on February 1

Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing left the capital Naypyidaw Sunday on a special flight to attend the Moscow Conference for International Security, state-run MRTV said.

The report said that he was attending at "the invitation of Russian Defence Minister". It added that he had been "greeted" by the Russian ambassador to Myanmar at the airport.

The report didn't give details on how long he was expected to stay in Russia. It is an ally and a major arms supplier to the Myanmar military.

Myanmar's embassy in Russia later confirmed Min Aung Hlaing's arrival to Russian state news agency RIA Novosti. 
"The commander-in-chief has arrived in Moscow," an embassy spokesperson was cited by the news agency as saying.

The junta's brutal crackdown on dissent has since killed at least 870 civilians, according to a local monitoring group.

In May local media reported the chief of Myanmar's air force attended a military helicopter exhibition in Moscow.

Min Aung Hlaing's visit comes after the UN General Assembly took the rare step on Friday of calling on member states to "prevent the flow of arms" into Myanmar.

(With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar military junta chief arrived in Moscow on Sunday to attend a security conference. This marks his second known trip abroad since military coup in Myanmar.

Myanmar military junta chief arrived in Moscow on Sunday to attend a security conference. This marks his second known trip abroad since military coup in Myanmar. Myanmar military toppled civilian government led by Aung Sab Suu Kyi in a coup on February 1 Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing left the capital Naypyidaw Sunday on a special flight to attend the Moscow Conference for International Security, state-run MRTV said. The report said that he was attending at "the invitation of Russian Defence Minister". It added that he had been "greeted" by the Russian ambassador to Myanmar at the airport. The report didn't give details on how long he was expected to stay in Russia. It is an ally and a major arms supplier to the Myanmar military. Myanmar's embassy in Russia later confirmed Min Aung Hlaing's arrival to Russian state news agency RIA Novosti. "The commander-in-chief has arrived in Moscow," an embassy spokesperson was cited by the news agency as saying. The junta's brutal crackdown on dissent has since killed at least 870 civilians, according to a local monitoring group. In May local media reported the chief of Myanmar's air force attended a military helicopter exhibition in Moscow. Min Aung Hlaing's visit comes after the UN General Assembly took the rare step on Friday of calling on member states to "prevent the flow of arms" into Myanmar. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar military junta leader arrives in Moscow for conference

Pope Francis on Sunday made an appeal to Myanmar's military junta to allow air to reach hungry, displace people who have fled the fighting since February 1 coup. He also made an appeal to respect religious sites as places of sanctuary. He was speaking at his Sunday blessing in St Peter's Square.

Pope Francis said that he wanted to "add" his "voice" to appeal made by Myanmar's Catholic bishops last week.

The Pope spoke of "heartbreaking experience of thousands of people in that country who are displaced and are dying of hunger"

He backed Myanmar Bishops' appeal for a humanitarian corridor in order to get aid to displaced people and to respect churches, pagodas, monasteries, mosques, temples, schools and hospitals, as neutral places of refuge.

The United Nations General Assembly on Friday called for a stop to the flow of arms to Myanmar and urged the military to respect November election results and release political detainees, including detained leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis on Sunday made an appeal to Myanmar's military junta to allow air to reach hungry, displace people who have fled the fighting since February 1 coup.

Pope Francis on Sunday made an appeal to Myanmar's military junta to allow air to reach hungry, displace people who have fled the fighting since February 1 coup. He also made an appeal to respect religious sites as places of sanctuary. He was speaking at his Sunday blessing in St Peter's Square. Pope Francis said that he wanted to "add" his "voice" to appeal made by Myanmar's Catholic bishops last week. The Pope spoke of "heartbreaking experience of thousands of people in that country who are displaced and are dying of hunger" He backed Myanmar Bishops' appeal for a humanitarian corridor in order to get aid to displaced people and to respect churches, pagodas, monasteries, mosques, temples, schools and hospitals, as neutral places of refuge. The United Nations General Assembly on Friday called for a stop to the flow of arms to Myanmar and urged the military to respect November election results and release political detainees, including detained leader Aung San Suu Kyi. (With inputs from agencies)

Pope backs Myanmar bishops' appeal for humanitarian corridor

A shadow government in Myanmar called on Rohingya minority on Thursday and urged them to join the fight to overthrow the military junta. It has promised citizenship and repatriation for the persecuted Muslim community in a future democratic Myanmar. Myanmar is currently in turmoil due to military rule.

The military junta overthrew the civilian government run by Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1. The country has since been on the boil with pro-democracy protests and clashes with military.

A group of ousted lawmakers -- mostly from the National League for Democracy (NLD) -- later set up a shadow "National Unity Government" (NUG) which has sought to bring anti-coup dissidents together.

Military junta has classified the NUG as "terrorists". It means that anyone speaking to them, even journalists, may be slapped with charges under counter-terrorism laws.

"We invite Rohingyas to join hands with us and with others to participate in this Spring Revolution against the military dictatorship," the group said in a statement.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/lawyer-for-myanmars-suu-kyi-worried-over-representation-for-secrets-case-389389">Lawyer for Myanmar's Suu Kyi worried over representation for secrets case</a>

Suu Kyi's NLD government had avoided the term "Rohingya" because of sensitivity among ethnic groups in the majority-Buddhist country, referring to the minority as "Muslims living in Rakhine."

In Myanmar, the Rohingya are widely seen as interlopers from Bangladesh and have been denied citizenship, rights and access to services for decades under what Amnesty International calls apartheid-like conditions.&nbsp;

The NUG has also promised to end a 1982 citizenship law that discriminates against the Rohingya. The NUG has promised that all those born in Myanmar or to a Myanmar citizen would be granted citizenship.&nbsp;

The group also said it was committed to repatriating all Rohingya languishing in camps in Bangladesh "as soon as repatriation can be accomplished voluntarily, safely and with dignity."

IN 2017, more than 740,000 Rohingya fled to Bangladesh after a bloody military campaign that the United Nations has termed as ethnic cleansing.

The military claimed its operations were justified to root out Rohingya insurgents following a series of deadly attacks on police posts and has denied all allegations of wrongdoing.&nbsp;

Suu Kyi defended the army's conduct and even travelled to The Hague to rebut charges of genocide at the UN's top court.

(With inputs from&nbsp;agencies)

A shadow government in Myanmar called on Rohingya minority on Thursday and urged them to join the fight to overthrow the military junta. It has promised citizenship and repatriation for the persecuted Muslim community in a future democratic Myanmar.

A shadow government in Myanmar called on Rohingya minority on Thursday and urged them to join the fight to overthrow the military junta. It has promised citizenship and repatriation for the persecuted Muslim community in a future democratic Myanmar. Myanmar is currently in turmoil due to military rule. The military junta overthrew the civilian government run by Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1. The country has since been on the boil with pro-democracy protests and clashes with military. A group of ousted lawmakers -- mostly from the National League for Democracy (NLD) -- later set up a shadow "National Unity Government" (NUG) which has sought to bring anti-coup dissidents together. Military junta has classified the NUG as "terrorists". It means that anyone speaking to them, even journalists, may be slapped with charges under counter-terrorism laws. "We invite Rohingyas to join hands with us and with others to participate in this Spring Revolution against the military dictatorship," the group said in a statement. Also Read | Lawyer for Myanmar's Suu Kyi worried over representation for secrets case Suu Kyi's NLD government had avoided the term "Rohingya" because of sensitivity among ethnic groups in the majority-Buddhist country, referring to the minority as "Muslims living in Rakhine." In Myanmar, the Rohingya are widely seen as interlopers from Bangladesh and have been denied citizenship, rights and access to services for decades under what Amnesty International calls apartheid-like conditions. The NUG has also promised to end a 1982 citizenship law that discriminates against the Rohingya. The NUG has promised that all those born in Myanmar or to a Myanmar citizen would be granted citizenship. The group also said it was committed to repatriating all Rohingya languishing in camps in Bangladesh "as soon as repatriation can be accomplished voluntarily, safely and with dignity." IN 2017, more than 740,000 Rohingya fled to Bangladesh after a bloody military campaign that the United Nations has termed as ethnic cleansing. The military claimed its operations were justified to root out Rohingya insurgents following a series of deadly attacks on police posts and has denied all allegations of wrongdoing. Suu Kyi defended the army's conduct and even travelled to The Hague to rebut charges of genocide at the UN's top court. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar: Shadow government urges Rohingya to fight against military junta

A shadow government in Myanmar said on Saturday that it had joined forces with a rebel group to "demolish" military junta rule. The military junta toppled Myanmar's civilian government under Aung San Suu Kyi in a coup on February 1 this year. The country has been in turmoil ever since and has been rocked by pro-democracy protests. The military junta has used force to suppress the dissent

A group of ousted lawmakers later set up a shadow "National Unity Government" (NUG) which has sought to bring anti-coup dissidents together with Myanmar's myriad ethnic rebel fighters to form a federal army to challenge the junta.

On Saturday, the rebel Chin National Front signed an agreement to "demolish the dictatorship and to implement a federal democratic system" in Myanmar, the NUG said in a statement.

Both parties pledged "mutual recognition" and to "partner equally", said the statement without giving more details.

Chin National Front (CNF) mainly represents Christian Chin minority in western Myanmar and it had signed a ceasefire with Myanmar military in 2015.

In recent years its fighters have dwindled.

"The CNF has no real military strength, so this move is symbolic," Richard Horsey, senior advisor on Myanmar to the International Crisis Group, told AFP.

"But [it is] nevertheless significant as CNF has been quite prominent in the peace process, due to its well respected political leaders in exile."

Several rebel groups have condemned military coup and use of violence against civilians.

Some are also providing shelter and even training to dissidents who flee into their territories.&nbsp;

But more than 20 outfits have long distrusted the ethnic Bamar majority -- including lawmakers affiliated with Suu Kyi's government.

On Friday, the NUG released a video it said showed the first batch of fighters from its "People's Defence Force", formed to protect civilians, completing their training.

Around a hundred recruits were shown marching across flat ground surrounded by jungle. None appeared to be carrying weapons.

"Let all Burmese people be freed from military slavery," the recruits were heard shouting together.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A shadow government in Myanmar said on Saturday that it had joined forces with a rebel group to "demolish" military junta rule. The military junta toppled Myanmar's civilian government under Aung San Suu Kyi in a coup on February 1 this year.

A shadow government in Myanmar said on Saturday that it had joined forces with a rebel group to "demolish" military junta rule. The military junta toppled Myanmar's civilian government under Aung San Suu Kyi in a coup on February 1 this year. The country has been in turmoil ever since and has been rocked by pro-democracy protests. The military junta has used force to suppress the dissent A group of ousted lawmakers later set up a shadow "National Unity Government" (NUG) which has sought to bring anti-coup dissidents together with Myanmar's myriad ethnic rebel fighters to form a federal army to challenge the junta. On Saturday, the rebel Chin National Front signed an agreement to "demolish the dictatorship and to implement a federal democratic system" in Myanmar, the NUG said in a statement. Both parties pledged "mutual recognition" and to "partner equally", said the statement without giving more details. Chin National Front (CNF) mainly represents Christian Chin minority in western Myanmar and it had signed a ceasefire with Myanmar military in 2015. In recent years its fighters have dwindled. "The CNF has no real military strength, so this move is symbolic," Richard Horsey, senior advisor on Myanmar to the International Crisis Group, told AFP. "But [it is] nevertheless significant as CNF has been quite prominent in the peace process, due to its well respected political leaders in exile." Several rebel groups have condemned military coup and use of violence against civilians. Some are also providing shelter and even training to dissidents who flee into their territories. But more than 20 outfits have long distrusted the ethnic Bamar majority -- including lawmakers affiliated with Suu Kyi's government. On Friday, the NUG released a video it said showed the first batch of fighters from its "People's Defence Force", formed to protect civilians, completing their training. Around a hundred recruits were shown marching across flat ground surrounded by jungle. None appeared to be carrying weapons. "Let all Burmese people be freed from military slavery," the recruits were heard shouting together. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar's shadow government allies with rebel group against military junta

Dozen of Myanmar security force members were killed on Sunday in a heavy fighting in the country's eastern region, rebel fighters said.

Myanmar is hit by violence and protests ever since the military junta toppled civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi. The junta has used strong-handed tactic while trying to control the situation.

The civilian death toll has climbed to at least 815 people, according to a local monitoring group.

The violence has pushed some in the anti-junta movement to form a so-called "People's Defence Force" (PDF) in their own townships -- made up of civilians who fight back against security forces with homemade weapons.

There were clashes in eastern Myanmar over the weekend, particularly in Kayah state's Demoso town, and in neighbouring Shan state.

People's Defence Force member Thet Wai -- not his real name -- said at least 20 police officers died Sunday and his side seized a police station in Moebyel town, Shan state, east of the capital Naypyidaw.

The police station was burnt down and rebel fighters also took four security force members into custody, local media reported.

"I thought today is a day of conquest," Thet Wai, 29, told AFP.

"But I am also worried because we have seen air strikes and tanks today. They have much better weapons than us."

He said the Myanmar military had launched helicopter air strikes in the evening at Demoso, a town in Kayah state about 40 kilometres south.

Another civilian fighter at Demoso said at least 13 Myanmar soldiers had been killed Sunday, while four of his men were wounded.

"We intended to seize their police station, but they used airstrikes and we could not stop their reinforcement trucks getting into the town," he said.

"We had to withdraw our troops from fighting."

The fighting continued through Sunday night, according to a senior leader of the Karenni National Progressive Party -- an ethnic armed group with a stronghold in Kayah state.

He confirmed that the military was using tanks, helicopters and mortar attacks in Demoso and Loikaw, the capital of Kayah state.

Meanwhile, military chief Min Aun Hlaing, who removed civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi from power in the coup, gave a two-hour interview to Hong Kong's Phoenix Television, with the full programme yet to air.

(With inputs from agencies)

Dozen of Myanmar security force members were killed on Sunday in a heavy fighting in the country's eastern region, rebel fighters said. Myanmar is hit by violence and protests ever since the military junta toppled civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi.

Dozen of Myanmar security force members were killed on Sunday in a heavy fighting in the country's eastern region, rebel fighters said. Myanmar is hit by violence and protests ever since the military junta toppled civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi. The junta has used strong-handed tactic while trying to control the situation. The civilian death toll has climbed to at least 815 people, according to a local monitoring group. The violence has pushed some in the anti-junta movement to form a so-called "People's Defence Force" (PDF) in their own townships -- made up of civilians who fight back against security forces with homemade weapons. There were clashes in eastern Myanmar over the weekend, particularly in Kayah state's Demoso town, and in neighbouring Shan state. People's Defence Force member Thet Wai -- not his real name -- said at least 20 police officers died Sunday and his side seized a police station in Moebyel town, Shan state, east of the capital Naypyidaw. The police station was burnt down and rebel fighters also took four security force members into custody, local media reported. "I thought today is a day of conquest," Thet Wai, 29, told AFP. "But I am also worried because we have seen air strikes and tanks today. They have much better weapons than us." He said the Myanmar military had launched helicopter air strikes in the evening at Demoso, a town in Kayah state about 40 kilometres south. Another civilian fighter at Demoso said at least 13 Myanmar soldiers had been killed Sunday, while four of his men were wounded. "We intended to seize their police station, but they used airstrikes and we could not stop their reinforcement trucks getting into the town," he said. "We had to withdraw our troops from fighting." The fighting continued through Sunday night, according to a senior leader of the Karenni National Progressive Party -- an ethnic armed group with a stronghold in Kayah state. He confirmed that the military was using tanks, helicopters and mortar attacks in Demoso and Loikaw, the capital of Kayah state. Meanwhile, military chief Min Aun Hlaing, who removed civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi from power in the coup, gave a two-hour interview to Hong Kong's Phoenix Television, with the full programme yet to air. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar: Police and soldiers killed in eastern region amid heavy fighting

Myanmar's deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi attended a court hearing on Monday, her first appearance in person since the military seized power on February 1. Prior to the hearing, Suu Kyi had only been permitted to speak with lawyers via a video link in the presence of security personnel.

Aung San Suu Kyi appears in court for first time since Myanmar coup

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 military junta leader Min Aung Hlaing will join a special ASEAN summit next week, said Thai foreign ministry on Saturday. This will be his first official trip since Myanmar military's February 1 coup that toppled the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi.

"Several leaders have confirmed their attendance including Myanmar’s MAH (Min Aung Hlaing)," said Thai foreign ministry spokesman Tanee Sangrat in a message to reporters.

The meeting of 10-country Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is set to take place in Jakarta on April 24.

Activists were not pleased with Myanmar junta leader attending the ASEAN meet.

"#ASEAN do not legitimize the Myanmar Military junta as a government by inviting MAH to attend the summit," said prominent activist Wai Wai Nu on Twitter. "(The) Junta is illegitimate and illegal."

Myanmar has seen fierce anti-democracy protests after February 1 coup. This has seen thousands of people taking to streets in cities across Myanmar to declare their support for democratic government.

The military junta has used strong-handed tactics including use of firearms that has seen hundreds of protesters getting killed till date.

(With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar military junta leader Min Aung Hlaing will join a special ASEAN summit next week, said Thai foreign ministry on Saturday. This will be his first official trip since Myanmar military's February 1 coup that toppled the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi.

Myanmar military junta leader Min Aung Hlaing will join a special ASEAN summit next week, said Thai foreign ministry on Saturday. This will be his first official trip since Myanmar military's February 1 coup that toppled the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi. "Several leaders have confirmed their attendance including Myanmar’s MAH (Min Aung Hlaing)," said Thai foreign ministry spokesman Tanee Sangrat in a message to reporters. The meeting of 10-country Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is set to take place in Jakarta on April 24. Activists were not pleased with Myanmar junta leader attending the ASEAN meet. "#ASEAN do not legitimize the Myanmar Military junta as a government by inviting MAH to attend the summit," said prominent activist Wai Wai Nu on Twitter. "(The) Junta is illegitimate and illegal." Myanmar has seen fierce anti-democracy protests after February 1 coup. This has seen thousands of people taking to streets in cities across Myanmar to declare their support for democratic government. The military junta has used strong-handed tactics including use of firearms that has seen hundreds of protesters getting killed till date. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar military junta leader to attend ASEAN summit

Aung San Suu Kyi, head of Myanmar's civilian government that was toppled in a military coup, asked a court on Monday to be allowed to meet her lawyers in person. She was appearing at the court hearing via a video link. Myanmar's military junta has slapped charges against her that could see her jailed for years.

So far, Aung San Suu Kyi has only been able to talk with her lawyers via video link.

"Mother Suu also said it had been a long time since she requested to meet with the legal team in person," lawyer Min Min Soe told Reuters when asked if her legal team had been able to talk to her about the protests in which more than 700 people have been killed.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/more-than-700-civilians-killed-by-myanmar-junta-since-coup-377032">More than 700 civilians killed by Myanmar junta since coup</a>

Her other lawyer, Khin Maung Zaw, said Suu Kyi looked healthy as she repeated a request to meet her lawyers face to face. The next hearing is on April 26.

An additional complaint against her was filed on Monday related to coronavirus rules, Khin said.

Myanmar military toppled Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government in a coup on February 1. Myanmar has seen fierce pro-democracy protests ever since. Armed forces have responded with brutal force that has seen protesters getting killed in figures ranging hundreds.

(With inputs from agencies)

Aung San Suu Kyi, head of Myanmar's civilian government that was toppled in a military coup, asked a court on Monday to be allowed to meet her lawyers in person.

Aung San Suu Kyi, head of Myanmar's civilian government that was toppled in a military coup, asked a court on Monday to be allowed to meet her lawyers in person. She was appearing at the court hearing via a video link. Myanmar's military junta has slapped charges against her that could see her jailed for years. So far, Aung San Suu Kyi has only been able to talk with her lawyers via video link. "Mother Suu also said it had been a long time since she requested to meet with the legal team in person," lawyer Min Min Soe told Reuters when asked if her legal team had been able to talk to her about the protests in which more than 700 people have been killed. Also Read | More than 700 civilians killed by Myanmar junta since coup Her other lawyer, Khin Maung Zaw, said Suu Kyi looked healthy as she repeated a request to meet her lawyers face to face. The next hearing is on April 26. An additional complaint against her was filed on Monday related to coronavirus rules, Khin said. Myanmar military toppled Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government in a coup on February 1. Myanmar has seen fierce pro-democracy protests ever since. Armed forces have responded with brutal force that has seen protesters getting killed in figures ranging hundreds. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi demands meeting with her lawyers in person

Myanmar's junta said on Friday that a protest campaign against its rule was dwindling since people wanted peace, and that it would hold elections within two years, the first timeframe it has given for a return to democracy since its Feb. 1 coup.

Troops fired rifle grenades at anti-coup protesters on Friday in the town of Bago, near the main city Yangon, witnesses and news reports said. At least 10 people were killed and their bodies piled up in the corner of a pagoda, they said.

Myanmar Now news and Mawkun, an online news magazine, said at least 20 people were killed and many wounded. It was not possible to get a precise toll because troops had cordoned off the area near the pagoda, they said.

Junta spokesman Brigadier General Zaw Min Tun told a news conference in the capital, Naypyitaw, that the country was returning to normal and government ministries and banks would resume full operations soon.

More than 600 people have been killed by security forces cracking down on protests against the coup, according to an activist group. The country has ground to a standstill because of the protest campaign and widespread strikes against military rule.

"The reason of reducing protests is due to cooperation of people who want peace, which we value," Zaw Min Tun said. "We request people to cooperate with security forces and help them."

He said the military had recorded 248 deaths and he denied that automatic weapons had been used. Sixteen policemen had also been killed, he said.

The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) activist group has said 614 people, including 48 children, had been killed by security forces since the coup, as of Thursday evening. More than 2,800 were in detention, it said.

"We are humbled by their courage and dignity," a group of 18 ambassadors in the country said of the protesters in a joint statement.

"We stand together to support the hopes and aspirations of all those who believe in a free, just, peaceful and democratic Myanmar. Violence has to stop, all political detainees must be released and democracy must be restored."

The statement was signed by the ambassadors of the United States, Britain, the EU, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Switzerland and several other European nations.

"The suggestions from neighbouring countries and big countries and powerful people in politics, we respect them," Zaw Min Tun said. He also accused members of deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy of arson and said the protest campaign was being financed by foreign money, but gave no details.

Suu Kyi and many of her party colleagues have been in custody since the coup.

Zaw Min Tun said reports that some members of the international community did not recognise the military government were "fake news".

"We are cooperating with foreign countries and working together with neighbouring countries," the spokesman said.

The United Nations special envoy for Myanmar, Christine Schraner Burgener, had wanted to visit the country but said she has been rebuffed by the generals.

She said on Friday she had arrived in Bangkok, the capital of neighbouring Thailand.

"I regret that Tatmadaw answered me yesterday that they are not ready to receive me," Schraner Burgener said on her official Twitter account, referring to the Myanmar military. "I am ready for dialogue. Violence never leads to peaceful sustainable solutions."

Myanmar's junta said on Friday that a protest campaign against its rule was dwindling since people wanted peace, and that it would hold elections within two years, the first timeframe it has given for a return to democracy since its Feb.

Myanmar's junta said on Friday that a protest campaign against its rule was dwindling since people wanted peace, and that it would hold elections within two years, the first timeframe it has given for a return to democracy since its Feb. 1 coup. Troops fired rifle grenades at anti-coup protesters on Friday in the town of Bago, near the main city Yangon, witnesses and news reports said. At least 10 people were killed and their bodies piled up in the corner of a pagoda, they said. Myanmar Now news and Mawkun, an online news magazine, said at least 20 people were killed and many wounded. It was not possible to get a precise toll because troops had cordoned off the area near the pagoda, they said. Junta spokesman Brigadier General Zaw Min Tun told a news conference in the capital, Naypyitaw, that the country was returning to normal and government ministries and banks would resume full operations soon. More than 600 people have been killed by security forces cracking down on protests against the coup, according to an activist group. The country has ground to a standstill because of the protest campaign and widespread strikes against military rule. "The reason of reducing protests is due to cooperation of people who want peace, which we value," Zaw Min Tun said. "We request people to cooperate with security forces and help them." He said the military had recorded 248 deaths and he denied that automatic weapons had been used. Sixteen policemen had also been killed, he said. The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) activist group has said 614 people, including 48 children, had been killed by security forces since the coup, as of Thursday evening. More than 2,800 were in detention, it said. "We are humbled by their courage and dignity," a group of 18 ambassadors in the country said of the protesters in a joint statement. "We stand together to support the hopes and aspirations of all those who believe in a free, just, peaceful and democratic Myanmar. Violence has to stop, all political detainees must be released and democracy must be restored." The statement was signed by the ambassadors of the United States, Britain, the EU, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Switzerland and several other European nations. "The suggestions from neighbouring countries and big countries and powerful people in politics, we respect them," Zaw Min Tun said. He also accused members of deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy of arson and said the protest campaign was being financed by foreign money, but gave no details. Suu Kyi and many of her party colleagues have been in custody since the coup. Zaw Min Tun said reports that some members of the international community did not recognise the military government were "fake news". "We are cooperating with foreign countries and working together with neighbouring countries," the spokesman said. The United Nations special envoy for Myanmar, Christine Schraner Burgener, had wanted to visit the country but said she has been rebuffed by the generals. She said on Friday she had arrived in Bangkok, the capital of neighbouring Thailand. "I regret that Tatmadaw answered me yesterday that they are not ready to receive me," Schraner Burgener said on her official Twitter account, referring to the Myanmar military. "I am ready for dialogue. Violence never leads to peaceful sustainable solutions."

Myanmar military sentences 19 to death, says anti-coup protests dwindling

Protesters in Myanmar clapped together on Monday in the latest show of dissent against the military junta, as a regional bloc prepared for talks on the crisis that has killed nearly 600 people.

Clapping began in various parts of the main city Yangon at 5 p.m. (1030 GMT) in response to a call by protest organisers, residents said.

The gesture would honour "Ethnic Armed Organisations and Gen Z defence youths from Myanmar including Yangon who are fighting in the revolution... on behalf of us," Ei Thinzar Maung, a protest leader, wrote on Facebook.

Despite the killing of at least 564 people by the security forces since the Feb. 1 coup, protesters have been coming out every day, often in small groups in small towns, to voice opposition to the overthrow of an elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi and the return of military rule.

The movement, which some protesters are calling a "spring revolution", has included street marches, a civil disobedience campaign of strikes and quirky acts of rebellion organised via social media.

In addition to the crackdown on the streets, the junta has sought to suppress the campaign by shutting down wireless broadband and mobile data services.

On Monday, one person was killed in the central Sagaing region when security forces broke up a protest, the Myanmar Now news outlet reported. Earlier, demonstrators with placards of Suu Kyi and signs calling for international intervention marched through the second-biggest city Mandalay, images posted on social media showed.

Brunei, chair of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), threw its support on Monday behind a regional leaders` meeting to discuss Myanmar.

After talks between Malaysian Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin and Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, Brunei said both countries had asked their ministers and officials to make the "necessary preparations for the meeting that will be held at the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta, Indonesia." No date was given.

ASEAN operates by consensus, but the divergent views of its members on how to respond to the Myanmar army`s crackdown on civilians and the group`s policy of non-interference has limited its ability to act.

Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines and Singapore have all expressed alarm over the killings of demonstrators and support an urgent high-level meeting on Myanmar. Besides Brunei, the other ASEAN members are Myanmar itself, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia.

The United States and other Western countries have denounced the coup and called for the release of Suu Kyi, who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991 for her campaign against military rule. She has been charged with violating an official secrets act that is punishable by up to 14 years in prison.

JUNTA REBUTS UN ENVOY

The junta said on Monday that comments last week by U.N. Special Envoy Christine Schraner Burgener about an impending "bloodbath" in Myanmar were inaccurate and misleading.

"Ms. Burgener`s remarks contravene the basic principles of sovereignty, and the fact that the United Nations is meant to work towards peace and stability of the world`s nations," it said in a notice in the state-run Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper.

Schraner Burgener told the 15-member U.N. Security Council on March 31 that it must consider "potentially significant action" to reverse the course of events as "a bloodbath is imminent," according to comments published by U.N. News.

The junta said the remarks were a "a far cry from reality and could delay and destabilise the efforts by the&nbsp; 
State Administration Council to establish a genuine and disciplined multiparty democracy".

The coup and subsequent crackdown has led to Western sanctions on the military and its lucrative businesses.

Fitch Solutions said on Monday that a conservative forecast for Myanmar`s economy would be for a 20% contraction in the fiscal year that began in October, instead of the 2% seen before the coup.

External pressure is growing on the military to stop the violence, with some countries calling for it to cede power and free all detainees, and others urging dialogue and new elections soon.

A total of 2,667 people have been detained under the junta, the Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) activist group said on Monday.

The junta at the weekend announced arrest warrants for about 60 celebrities, social media influencers, models and musicians on charges of incitement.

The military, which ruled with an iron first for half a century until 2011, has also seen fighting with armed ethnic minorities reignite on at least two fronts, raising fears of growing conflict and chaos in the country. 
&nbsp;

Protesters in Myanmar clapped together on Monday in the latest show of dissent against the military junta, as a regional bloc prepared for talks on the crisis that has killed nearly 600 people.

Protesters in Myanmar clapped together on Monday in the latest show of dissent against the military junta, as a regional bloc prepared for talks on the crisis that has killed nearly 600 people. Clapping began in various parts of the main city Yangon at 5 p.m. (1030 GMT) in response to a call by protest organisers, residents said. The gesture would honour "Ethnic Armed Organisations and Gen Z defence youths from Myanmar including Yangon who are fighting in the revolution... on behalf of us," Ei Thinzar Maung, a protest leader, wrote on Facebook. Despite the killing of at least 564 people by the security forces since the Feb. 1 coup, protesters have been coming out every day, often in small groups in small towns, to voice opposition to the overthrow of an elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi and the return of military rule. The movement, which some protesters are calling a "spring revolution", has included street marches, a civil disobedience campaign of strikes and quirky acts of rebellion organised via social media. In addition to the crackdown on the streets, the junta has sought to suppress the campaign by shutting down wireless broadband and mobile data services. On Monday, one person was killed in the central Sagaing region when security forces broke up a protest, the Myanmar Now news outlet reported. Earlier, demonstrators with placards of Suu Kyi and signs calling for international intervention marched through the second-biggest city Mandalay, images posted on social media showed. Brunei, chair of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), threw its support on Monday behind a regional leaders` meeting to discuss Myanmar. After talks between Malaysian Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin and Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, Brunei said both countries had asked their ministers and officials to make the "necessary preparations for the meeting that will be held at the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta, Indonesia." No date was given. ASEAN operates by consensus, but the divergent views of its members on how to respond to the Myanmar army`s crackdown on civilians and the group`s policy of non-interference has limited its ability to act. Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines and Singapore have all expressed alarm over the killings of demonstrators and support an urgent high-level meeting on Myanmar. Besides Brunei, the other ASEAN members are Myanmar itself, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia. The United States and other Western countries have denounced the coup and called for the release of Suu Kyi, who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991 for her campaign against military rule. She has been charged with violating an official secrets act that is punishable by up to 14 years in prison. JUNTA REBUTS UN ENVOY The junta said on Monday that comments last week by U.N. Special Envoy Christine Schraner Burgener about an impending "bloodbath" in Myanmar were inaccurate and misleading. "Ms. Burgener`s remarks contravene the basic principles of sovereignty, and the fact that the United Nations is meant to work towards peace and stability of the world`s nations," it said in a notice in the state-run Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper. Schraner Burgener told the 15-member U.N. Security Council on March 31 that it must consider "potentially significant action" to reverse the course of events as "a bloodbath is imminent," according to comments published by U.N. News. The junta said the remarks were a "a far cry from reality and could delay and destabilise the efforts by the State Administration Council to establish a genuine and disciplined multiparty democracy". The coup and subsequent crackdown has led to Western sanctions on the military and its lucrative businesses. Fitch Solutions said on Monday that a conservative forecast for Myanmar`s economy would be for a 20% contraction in the fiscal year that began in October, instead of the 2% seen before the coup. External pressure is growing on the military to stop the violence, with some countries calling for it to cede power and free all detainees, and others urging dialogue and new elections soon. A total of 2,667 people have been detained under the junta, the Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) activist group said on Monday. The junta at the weekend announced arrest warrants for about 60 celebrities, social media influencers, models and musicians on charges of incitement. The military, which ruled with an iron first for half a century until 2011, has also seen fighting with armed ethnic minorities reignite on at least two fronts, raising fears of growing conflict and chaos in the country.

Myanmar protesters clap to denounce junta as region focuses on crisis

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

It's been nearly two months since the military coup in Myanmar and the situation remains tense. Pro-democracy protesters continue to clash with security forces that are showing little restraint in their crackdown.

Sunday (March 28) was the bloodiest day since the coup. At least 100 protesters were killed in clashes with local police. The violence was the worst in Yangon and Mandalay, two of the biggest cities in Myanmar.

The protesters are calling it a 'day of shame' for the Myanmar Army. The army is calling it an issue of law &amp; order. It is accusing foreign forces and&nbsp;local militias of trying to stoke unrest and derail efforts to restore democracy in the long run.

In this back and forth, neighbouring countries are preparing for the repercussions.

On Sunday, the Myanmar Army carried out airstrikes on an area held by the Karen Liberation Army. This is an ethnic armed group that operates in the southeastern Karen state bordering Thailand.

This attack was aimed at curtailing the operations of this rebel group. But it has ended up further perpetuating the ongoing exodus to Thailand. At least 3,000 ethnic Karen villagers have crossed the Myanmar-Thailand border.

They have found refuge in Thailand's Mae Hong Son province.

Thai authorities say they are bracing for a larger influx of refugees in the days to come.

"Please let this be an internal issue for us. We don't want to have an exodus (of refugees) and evacuations into our territory but we will observe human rights too," said Thailand Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-Ocha.

"How many refugees are expected? We have prepared an area for them to stay first after they cross over. We can talk about the numbers later. We're not going to talk about a (permanent) shelter yet, we're not there yet. This is a matter of the department of national security to deal with," he added.

It's a similar situation along Myanmar's border with India. In the last few weeks, refugees from Myanmar have fled to Indian states of Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh. There are no official estimates on how many Myanmar nationals have come to India.

But reports put the numbers at over 700. The governments in these states are responding by keeping the local sentiments in mind.

A large number of Mizo people and ethnic groups in Manipur empathise with the refugees. And it is reflecting in the decisions being taken by the respective state governments. But this exodus poses a big security challenge for New Delhi.

India has suffered due to a refugee crisis in the past. And due to its proximity to Myanmar, it is again bearing the brunt of internal unrest in the country as western powers situated far away from Myanmar with no proper cognizance of the ground reality ratchet up sanctions on the army junta to prove that they're doing something.

But the reality is&nbsp;that India and&nbsp;other countries neighbouring Myanmar are ultimately paying the price for their decisions.

Decisions taken by western nations like visa bans, arms embargo, freezing assets and cutting diplomatic ties have done little to stop ongoing crackdown in Myanmar or to reverse the coup.

The army junta is far from course-correcting. And the people of Myanmar are feeling the pinch.

Hundreds have died, thousands have been displaced, turned into refugees.

The need of the hour is to not make tall proclamations but to adopt a cautious and practical approach, to hold a dialogue with the military generals if needed and persuade them to restore democracy.

It's been nearly two months since the military coup in Myanmar and the situation remains tense. Pro-democracy protesters continue to clash with security forces that are showing little restraint in their crackdown.

It's been nearly two months since the military coup in Myanmar and the situation remains tense. Pro-democracy protesters continue to clash with security forces that are showing little restraint in their crackdown. Sunday (March 28) was the bloodiest day since the coup. At least 100 protesters were killed in clashes with local police. The violence was the worst in Yangon and Mandalay, two of the biggest cities in Myanmar. The protesters are calling it a 'day of shame' for the Myanmar Army. The army is calling it an issue of law & order. It is accusing foreign forces and local militias of trying to stoke unrest and derail efforts to restore democracy in the long run. In this back and forth, neighbouring countries are preparing for the repercussions. On Sunday, the Myanmar Army carried out airstrikes on an area held by the Karen Liberation Army. This is an ethnic armed group that operates in the southeastern Karen state bordering Thailand. This attack was aimed at curtailing the operations of this rebel group. But it has ended up further perpetuating the ongoing exodus to Thailand. At least 3,000 ethnic Karen villagers have crossed the Myanmar-Thailand border. They have found refuge in Thailand's Mae Hong Son province. Thai authorities say they are bracing for a larger influx of refugees in the days to come. "Please let this be an internal issue for us. We don't want to have an exodus (of refugees) and evacuations into our territory but we will observe human rights too," said Thailand Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-Ocha. "How many refugees are expected? We have prepared an area for them to stay first after they cross over. We can talk about the numbers later. We're not going to talk about a (permanent) shelter yet, we're not there yet. This is a matter of the department of national security to deal with," he added. It's a similar situation along Myanmar's border with India. In the last few weeks, refugees from Myanmar have fled to Indian states of Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh. There are no official estimates on how many Myanmar nationals have come to India. But reports put the numbers at over 700. The governments in these states are responding by keeping the local sentiments in mind. A large number of Mizo people and ethnic groups in Manipur empathise with the refugees. And it is reflecting in the decisions being taken by the respective state governments. But this exodus poses a big security challenge for New Delhi. India has suffered due to a refugee crisis in the past. And due to its proximity to Myanmar, it is again bearing the brunt of internal unrest in the country as western powers situated far away from Myanmar with no proper cognizance of the ground reality ratchet up sanctions on the army junta to prove that they're doing something. But the reality is that India and other countries neighbouring Myanmar are ultimately paying the price for their decisions. Decisions taken by western nations like visa bans, arms embargo, freezing assets and cutting diplomatic ties have done little to stop ongoing crackdown in Myanmar or to reverse the coup. The army junta is far from course-correcting. And the people of Myanmar are feeling the pinch. Hundreds have died, thousands have been displaced, turned into refugees. The need of the hour is to not make tall proclamations but to adopt a cautious and practical approach, to hold a dialogue with the military generals if needed and persuade them to restore democracy.

Myanmar: Western measures have had little effect on military junta

Russia said on Monday that it was 'very concerned' over civilian casualties in Myanmar. The comment has come two days after Myanmar saw bloodiest day as 114 people were killed by security forces on Saturday.

"We are very concerned by the growing number of civilian casualties," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, adding that Russia was developing ties with Myanmar but did not condone the violence.

The horrific killings on Saturday coincided with Armed Forces Day in the country that has seen citizens fiercely protest against military rule. The military toppled the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi in a coup on February 1.

The big cities like Yangon and Mandalay saw largest number of killings At least 40 people, including a 13-year-old girl, were killed in Mandalay, and at least 27 people were killed in Yangon, as per the local media.

The international condemnation of military junta rule has grown shriller still. US President on Monday decried the bloodshed as "absolutely outrageous". He said that the US was working on sanctions against Myanmar.

(With agency inputs)

Russia said on Monday that it was 'very concerned' over civilian casualties in Myanmar. The comment has come two days after Myanmar saw bloodiest day as 114 people were killed by security forces on Saturday.

Russia said on Monday that it was 'very concerned' over civilian casualties in Myanmar. The comment has come two days after Myanmar saw bloodiest day as 114 people were killed by security forces on Saturday. "We are very concerned by the growing number of civilian casualties," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, adding that Russia was developing ties with Myanmar but did not condone the violence. The horrific killings on Saturday coincided with Armed Forces Day in the country that has seen citizens fiercely protest against military rule. The military toppled the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi in a coup on February 1. The big cities like Yangon and Mandalay saw largest number of killings At least 40 people, including a 13-year-old girl, were killed in Mandalay, and at least 27 people were killed in Yangon, as per the local media. The international condemnation of military junta rule has grown shriller still. US President on Monday decried the bloodshed as "absolutely outrageous". He said that the US was working on sanctions against Myanmar. (With agency inputs)

'Very concerned' over civilian casualties in Myanmar, says Russia

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.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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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

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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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

Demonstrators in Myanmar maintained their dogged opposition to military rule on Sunday despite a rising death toll, with two more people killed as the junta appeared equally determined to resist growing pressure to compromise.

The country has been in turmoil since the military overthrew an elected government led by Nobel peace laureate Aung San Suu Kyi on Feb. 1, bringing an end to 10 years of tentative democratic reform.

One man was shot dead and several were wounded when police opened fire on a group setting up a barricade in the central town of Monywa, a doctor there said as a community group issued a call on Facebook for blood donors.

Later, one person was killed and several were wounded when security forces fired on a crowd in the second city of Mandalay, the Myanmar Now news portal reported.

At least 249 people have now been killed since the coup, according to figures from the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners activist group.

The violence has forced many citizens to think up novel ways to express their rejection of a return to army rule.

Protesters in some 20 places across the country staged candle-lit, nighttime protests over the weekend, from the main city of Yangon to small communities in Kachin State in the north, Hakha town in the west and the southernmost town of Kawthaung, according to a tally of social media posts.

Hundreds of people in the second city of Mandalay, including many medical staff in white coats, marched in a "Dawn protest" before sunrise on Sunday, video posted by the Mizzima news portal showed.

"Failure of the military regime, our cause our cause ... federal democracy, our cause our cause," the crowd chanted as the sky was beginning to brighten and birds called from trees lining deserted streets.

Protesters in some places were joined by Buddhist monks holding candles while some people used candles to make the shape of the three-fingered protest salute.

Others came out later on Sunday, including the crowd in Monywa, where police opened fire.

"Sniper, sniper," people can be heard shouting in a video clip shortly after the man was shot in the head and more shots rang out.

The spokesman for the junta was not available for comment but has previously said security forces have used force only when necessary.

State media said on Sunday that men on motorbikes attacked a member of the security forces who later died. The military said two policemen were killed in earlier protests.

'FOREIGN INSULTS'

The junta says a Nov. 8 election won by Suu Kyi's party was fraudulent, an accusation rejected by the electoral commission. Military leaders have promised a new election but have not set a date.

Western countries have repeatedly condemned the coup and the violence. Asian neighbours, who have for years avoided criticising each other, have also begun speaking out.

Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore have denounced the use of lethal force and called for the violence to stop. The Philippines has expressed concern.

Indonesia and Malaysia want an urgent meeting of Southeast Asia's regional grouping, of which Myanmar is a member, on the crisis.

But the military, which sees itself as the sole guardian of national unity and ruled for nearly 50 years after a 1962 coup, has shown no sign of even considering back-tracking on its seizure of power.

Coup leader General Min Aung Hlaing visited the Coco islands, one of Myanmar's most strategically important outposts, 400 km (250 miles) south of Yangon, on Saturday and reminded members of the armed force there that their main duty was to defend the country against external threats.

The state-run Kyemon newspaper prominently featured a quote from independence hero Aung San, Suu Kyi's father, who in 1947 said: "It is everyone's duty to sacrifice their lives and defend and fight back against foreign countries' insults."

Suu Kyi, 75, faces accusations of bribery and other crimes that could see her banned from politics and jailed if convicted. Her lawyer says the charges are trumped up.

Australia's SBS News reported that two Australian business consultants were detained as they tried to leave Myanmar, but it was not clear why. The broadcaster quoted an Australian foreign ministry spokeswoman as declining to comment on the two for privacy reasons.

Demonstrators in Myanmar maintained their dogged opposition to military rule on Sunday despite a rising death toll, with two more people killed as the junta appeared equally determined to resist growing pressure to compromise.

Demonstrators in Myanmar maintained their dogged opposition to military rule on Sunday despite a rising death toll, with two more people killed as the junta appeared equally determined to resist growing pressure to compromise. The country has been in turmoil since the military overthrew an elected government led by Nobel peace laureate Aung San Suu Kyi on Feb. 1, bringing an end to 10 years of tentative democratic reform. One man was shot dead and several were wounded when police opened fire on a group setting up a barricade in the central town of Monywa, a doctor there said as a community group issued a call on Facebook for blood donors. Later, one person was killed and several were wounded when security forces fired on a crowd in the second city of Mandalay, the Myanmar Now news portal reported. At least 249 people have now been killed since the coup, according to figures from the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners activist group. The violence has forced many citizens to think up novel ways to express their rejection of a return to army rule. Protesters in some 20 places across the country staged candle-lit, nighttime protests over the weekend, from the main city of Yangon to small communities in Kachin State in the north, Hakha town in the west and the southernmost town of Kawthaung, according to a tally of social media posts. Hundreds of people in the second city of Mandalay, including many medical staff in white coats, marched in a "Dawn protest" before sunrise on Sunday, video posted by the Mizzima news portal showed. "Failure of the military regime, our cause our cause ... federal democracy, our cause our cause," the crowd chanted as the sky was beginning to brighten and birds called from trees lining deserted streets. Protesters in some places were joined by Buddhist monks holding candles while some people used candles to make the shape of the three-fingered protest salute. Others came out later on Sunday, including the crowd in Monywa, where police opened fire. "Sniper, sniper," people can be heard shouting in a video clip shortly after the man was shot in the head and more shots rang out. The spokesman for the junta was not available for comment but has previously said security forces have used force only when necessary. State media said on Sunday that men on motorbikes attacked a member of the security forces who later died. The military said two policemen were killed in earlier protests. 'FOREIGN INSULTS' The junta says a Nov. 8 election won by Suu Kyi's party was fraudulent, an accusation rejected by the electoral commission. Military leaders have promised a new election but have not set a date. Western countries have repeatedly condemned the coup and the violence. Asian neighbours, who have for years avoided criticising each other, have also begun speaking out. Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore have denounced the use of lethal force and called for the violence to stop. The Philippines has expressed concern. Indonesia and Malaysia want an urgent meeting of Southeast Asia's regional grouping, of which Myanmar is a member, on the crisis. But the military, which sees itself as the sole guardian of national unity and ruled for nearly 50 years after a 1962 coup, has shown no sign of even considering back-tracking on its seizure of power. Coup leader General Min Aung Hlaing visited the Coco islands, one of Myanmar's most strategically important outposts, 400 km (250 miles) south of Yangon, on Saturday and reminded members of the armed force there that their main duty was to defend the country against external threats. The state-run Kyemon newspaper prominently featured a quote from independence hero Aung San, Suu Kyi's father, who in 1947 said: "It is everyone's duty to sacrifice their lives and defend and fight back against foreign countries' insults." Suu Kyi, 75, faces accusations of bribery and other crimes that could see her banned from politics and jailed if convicted. Her lawyer says the charges are trumped up. Australia's SBS News reported that two Australian business consultants were detained as they tried to leave Myanmar, but it was not clear why. The broadcaster quoted an Australian foreign ministry spokeswoman as declining to comment on the two for privacy reasons.

Myanmar protesters defiant as two more killed, pressure on junta grows

A Military Television Network in Myanmar aired a 'confession' of a construction tycoon. He claims to have paid $550,000 as a bribe to Aung San Suu Kyi. But this so-called evidence is doing little to deter the protesters. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Myanmar: Military makes another attempt to discredit Aung San Suu Kyi

Myanmar's state-controlled television reported that a prominent businessman has claimed to give the ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi about $550,000 in illegal payments in 2019 and 2020.

Myanmar Update: Businessman claims to have given money to Suu Kyi

At least 183 killed & a number of casualties increasing almost every day. Amid violence, bloodshed & killings, a young Myanmar soldier has found his 'awakening moment.' The 30-year-old former soldier narrates his story

Myanmar soldier joins anti-coup movement

Brutal repression continues on protestors using tear gas and other methods in Myanmar by security forces. However, it failed to break up the protests till now as the protestors continue to refuse for stopping the same.

Myanmar military uses force as dissent grows

The occurrences in Myanmar, India’s immediate eastern neighbourhood have shaken the whole world in the wake of a military take-over by the junta on Feb 1, promulgating an emergency for the next one year and more significantly, putting popular pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi behind bars. The country is up in flames. So far more than 50 have been killed. Well over 1700 have been arrested, and a violent showdown between the protesters and heavily armed security forces has become more a routine than an exception. Reports of confrontation between the military and the agitators seeking return of democracy and release of Aung San Suu Kyi in Yangon, Mandalay and other places are trickling on a regular basis.

The scene looks perilous. The villain behind crushing the democratic future of Myanmar and causing a Coup d’etat is 64-year-old General Min Aung Hlaing who has been functioning as the army chief of Myanmar since 2011. Known for his ruthless response against any civilian uprising, Gen Hlaing, a law graduate himself, came to adverse light in 2009 when as a “battle-hardened warrior” of the Myanmar military, he ruthlessly launched a military offensive in Kokang region crushing the Myanmar Nationalities Democratic Alliance.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-myanmar-exploiting-lessons-learnt-in-the-middle-east-365829">Opinion- Myanmar: Exploiting lessons learnt in the Middle East</a>

This infamous General is also singularly responsible for the brutal crackdown on the Rohingyas in 2017 resulting in the influx of nearly 7 million of them into Bangladesh in the last over three years, the number has exceeded 10 million. This shows his heartlessness and resolve to sabotage any chances of democracy trying to find a space in the political landscape of Myanmar.

Meanwhile, the ongoing political turbulence and incessant crackdown on the defiant protesters have drawn acerbic criticism from the UN. UN Human Rights Chief, Michelle Rachelet, in a recent statement, called upon the military to stop forthwith the vicious repression and killings of the innocents.&nbsp;

ASEAN calls for an end to perpetration of excesses have also fallen on deaf ears like the appeals from the UN. There have been more than visible protest demonstrations in front of the Indonesian and Thai Embassies in Myanmar that have not resulted in any impact except stirring an increasing public opinion against the military.&nbsp;

Public is surely in a defiant mood.&nbsp;

Slogans and placards are carrying banner headlines that say “Stone Age is over”. &nbsp;They are also ranting that the protesters are no longer afraid of any threat from the military. The cities in Myanmar are dotted with barricades and fortifications, never seen before of this scale. The country, since its independence, has seen five military takeovers dating from 1948 but the resistance put up this time seems unprecedented. Several “people’s governing bodies” have been formed which pose a direct challenge to the military leadership.&nbsp;

Their resorting to lobbing of stun grenades and firing of live ammunition have also been proving ineffective. Foreign Minister of Singapore, Vivian Balakrishnan on March 5 has described in the Parliament, the happenings in Myanmar as national shame including the armed forces' use of weapons against its own people.

Amid these happenings, credible reports suggest that the military leadership in Myanmar has tried to withdraw one billion US dollars from Federal Reserve after seizing power on Feb 1. The US has put a freeze on the transaction. &nbsp;It’s further known now that the Central Bank of Myanmar had tried to siphon off the money from the US. The US is trying to ascertain the names of those involved in this attempt to withdraw money as the US, the UK, EU and Canada have imposed fresh sanctions on Myanmar.

At the same time, however, there seems to be a concerted disinformation campaign unleashed by the military as seen from disclosure by an ex-Israeli military intelligence officer who is also a Canadian citizen. Ari Ben Menashe, who claims to have intervened in military regimes of Sudan and other conflict zones, said that he has been hired by the Myanmar military to do some damage control lest its image is tarnished in the eyes of the US and other western countries. Menashe’s firm is known as Dickens &amp; Madsons.&nbsp;

Canada hinted that Myanmar military leadership is trying to distance itself from China so that it’s not seen as a Chinese puppet. This looks surprising and couldn’t be independently verified at this juncture. Menashe further claimed that Myanmar is trying to take back Rohingya refugees from Bangladesh and its using diplomatic channels in Saudi Arabia and the UAE for their early return. This again appears intriguing yet it needs close monitoring.

Meanwhile, inputs as of March 7 reveal that there were sporadic incidents of violence during clashes between the security forces in different parts of Myanmar with protesters intensifying their tirade against the military regime. There have been raids in the houses of hundreds of protesters and one activist of the National League for Democracy (NLD), Khin Maung Latt died in military custody allegedly after he was tortured. A northern Shan State city Lashio saw a barrage of police firing, stun grenades and tear-gassing that injured many.&nbsp;

There is an uneasy calm prevailing in many parts of Myanmar. As regards to India, its borders with Myanmar need to be extra vigilant to prevent unauthorised entry of the victims of the military. A section of the Myanmar military is believed to have told the Indian authorities to return many Myanmar policemen who are thought to have crossed over to the Indian side in the state of Mizoram to escape the military onslaught.

As things unfold dramatically in Myanmar with the rising military oppression and the anti-coup protestors stepping up their aggressive opposition, a longish stand-off between the military-led government and the pro-democracy forces looks certain in the near foreseeable future.

India, diplomatically, has so far played its card with dexterity and patience at the same time eyeing the situation closely to act and react as the ground situation demands.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

The occurrences in Myanmar, India’s immediate eastern neighbourhood have shaken the whole world in the wake of a military take-over by the junta on Feb 1, promulgating an emergency for the next one year and more significantly, putting popular pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi behind bars.

The occurrences in Myanmar, India’s immediate eastern neighbourhood have shaken the whole world in the wake of a military take-over by the junta on Feb 1, promulgating an emergency for the next one year and more significantly, putting popular pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi behind bars. The country is up in flames. So far more than 50 have been killed. Well over 1700 have been arrested, and a violent showdown between the protesters and heavily armed security forces has become more a routine than an exception. Reports of confrontation between the military and the agitators seeking return of democracy and release of Aung San Suu Kyi in Yangon, Mandalay and other places are trickling on a regular basis. The scene looks perilous. The villain behind crushing the democratic future of Myanmar and causing a Coup d’etat is 64-year-old General Min Aung Hlaing who has been functioning as the army chief of Myanmar since 2011. Known for his ruthless response against any civilian uprising, Gen Hlaing, a law graduate himself, came to adverse light in 2009 when as a “battle-hardened warrior” of the Myanmar military, he ruthlessly launched a military offensive in Kokang region crushing the Myanmar Nationalities Democratic Alliance. Also Read | Opinion- Myanmar: Exploiting lessons learnt in the Middle East This infamous General is also singularly responsible for the brutal crackdown on the Rohingyas in 2017 resulting in the influx of nearly 7 million of them into Bangladesh in the last over three years, the number has exceeded 10 million. This shows his heartlessness and resolve to sabotage any chances of democracy trying to find a space in the political landscape of Myanmar. Meanwhile, the ongoing political turbulence and incessant crackdown on the defiant protesters have drawn acerbic criticism from the UN. UN Human Rights Chief, Michelle Rachelet, in a recent statement, called upon the military to stop forthwith the vicious repression and killings of the innocents. ASEAN calls for an end to perpetration of excesses have also fallen on deaf ears like the appeals from the UN. There have been more than visible protest demonstrations in front of the Indonesian and Thai Embassies in Myanmar that have not resulted in any impact except stirring an increasing public opinion against the military. Public is surely in a defiant mood. Slogans and placards are carrying banner headlines that say “Stone Age is over”. They are also ranting that the protesters are no longer afraid of any threat from the military. The cities in Myanmar are dotted with barricades and fortifications, never seen before of this scale. The country, since its independence, has seen five military takeovers dating from 1948 but the resistance put up this time seems unprecedented. Several “people’s governing bodies” have been formed which pose a direct challenge to the military leadership. Their resorting to lobbing of stun grenades and firing of live ammunition have also been proving ineffective. Foreign Minister of Singapore, Vivian Balakrishnan on March 5 has described in the Parliament, the happenings in Myanmar as national shame including the armed forces' use of weapons against its own people. Amid these happenings, credible reports suggest that the military leadership in Myanmar has tried to withdraw one billion US dollars from Federal Reserve after seizing power on Feb 1. The US has put a freeze on the transaction. It’s further known now that the Central Bank of Myanmar had tried to siphon off the money from the US. The US is trying to ascertain the names of those involved in this attempt to withdraw money as the US, the UK, EU and Canada have imposed fresh sanctions on Myanmar. At the same time, however, there seems to be a concerted disinformation campaign unleashed by the military as seen from disclosure by an ex-Israeli military intelligence officer who is also a Canadian citizen. Ari Ben Menashe, who claims to have intervened in military regimes of Sudan and other conflict zones, said that he has been hired by the Myanmar military to do some damage control lest its image is tarnished in the eyes of the US and other western countries. Menashe’s firm is known as Dickens & Madsons. Canada hinted that Myanmar military leadership is trying to distance itself from China so that it’s not seen as a Chinese puppet. This looks surprising and couldn’t be independently verified at this juncture. Menashe further claimed that Myanmar is trying to take back Rohingya refugees from Bangladesh and its using diplomatic channels in Saudi Arabia and the UAE for their early return. This again appears intriguing yet it needs close monitoring. Meanwhile, inputs as of March 7 reveal that there were sporadic incidents of violence during clashes between the security forces in different parts of Myanmar with protesters intensifying their tirade against the military regime. There have been raids in the houses of hundreds of protesters and one activist of the National League for Democracy (NLD), Khin Maung Latt died in military custody allegedly after he was tortured. A northern Shan State city Lashio saw a barrage of police firing, stun grenades and tear-gassing that injured many. There is an uneasy calm prevailing in many parts of Myanmar. As regards to India, its borders with Myanmar need to be extra vigilant to prevent unauthorised entry of the victims of the military. A section of the Myanmar military is believed to have told the Indian authorities to return many Myanmar policemen who are thought to have crossed over to the Indian side in the state of Mizoram to escape the military onslaught. As things unfold dramatically in Myanmar with the rising military oppression and the anti-coup protestors stepping up their aggressive opposition, a longish stand-off between the military-led government and the pro-democracy forces looks certain in the near foreseeable future. India, diplomatically, has so far played its card with dexterity and patience at the same time eyeing the situation closely to act and react as the ground situation demands. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion: Is worst still waiting to happen in Myanmar?

A crackdown by security forces in Myanmar in which at least 18 anti-coup demonstrators were killed has now bought renewed calls for tougher international sanctions on the military junta.

Western Nations outrage over Myanmar reignited

Myanmar police fired rubber bullets in order to disperse protesters in capital Yangon on Saturday, reported AFP. This has come just hours after Myanmar's ambassador to the United Nations made an emotional plea to the international community for action against the military junta. It was unclear if any live rounds were used. Police chased protesters and journalists from the Myaynigone junction.

There had been an hours-long standoff on Friday at the same spot.

Hundreds of ethnic Mon protesters gathered there on Saturday to commemorate Mon National Day, joined by other ethnic minority groups to protest against the coup.

The police arrived to clear the intersection, chasing protesters and journalists who ran to hide in nearby buildings.

Three journalists were among those detained on Saturday.

"What are the police doing? They are protecting a crazy dictator," the protesters chanted.

They scattered into smaller residential streets and started building makeshift barricades out of barbed wire and tables to stop the police.

Local reporters broadcast the chaotic scenes live on Facebook, including the moments when the shots rang out.

Three domestic media outlets in Myanmar reported that a woman was shot and killed in central town of Monwya

The developments on Saturday assume importance as they took place just hours after Myanmar's envoy at UN <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/take-strongest-action-to-end-coup-myanmar-envoy-makes-emotional-plea-in-un-366580">broke rank to urge the international community</a> to do something about the situation in Myanmar.

"We need... the strongest possible action from the international community to immediately end the military coup, to stop oppressing the innocent people, to return the state power to the people, and to restore the democracy," Kyaw Moe Tun, the envoy, said.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/take-strongest-action-to-end-coup-myanmar-envoy-makes-emotional-plea-in-un-366580">'Take strongest action to end coup': Myanmar envoy makes emotional plea in UN</a>

His speech was impassioned and his voice trembled as he made his point.

(With agency&nbsp;inputs)

Myanmar police fired rubber bullets in order to disperse protesters in capital Yangon on Saturday, reported AFP. This has come just hours after Myanmar's ambassador to the United Nations made an emotional plea to the international community for action against the military junta.

Myanmar police fired rubber bullets in order to disperse protesters in capital Yangon on Saturday, reported AFP. This has come just hours after Myanmar's ambassador to the United Nations made an emotional plea to the international community for action against the military junta. It was unclear if any live rounds were used. Police chased protesters and journalists from the Myaynigone junction. There had been an hours-long standoff on Friday at the same spot. Hundreds of ethnic Mon protesters gathered there on Saturday to commemorate Mon National Day, joined by other ethnic minority groups to protest against the coup. The police arrived to clear the intersection, chasing protesters and journalists who ran to hide in nearby buildings. Three journalists were among those detained on Saturday. "What are the police doing? They are protecting a crazy dictator," the protesters chanted. They scattered into smaller residential streets and started building makeshift barricades out of barbed wire and tables to stop the police. Local reporters broadcast the chaotic scenes live on Facebook, including the moments when the shots rang out. Three domestic media outlets in Myanmar reported that a woman was shot and killed in central town of Monwya The developments on Saturday assume importance as they took place just hours after Myanmar's envoy at UN broke rank to urge the international community to do something about the situation in Myanmar. "We need... the strongest possible action from the international community to immediately end the military coup, to stop oppressing the innocent people, to return the state power to the people, and to restore the democracy," Kyaw Moe Tun, the envoy, said. Also Read | 'Take strongest action to end coup': Myanmar envoy makes emotional plea in UN His speech was impassioned and his voice trembled as he made his point. (With agency inputs)

Hours after Myanmar envoy's UN speech, police fire rubber bullets at protesters

Refusal of many Myanmar's civil servants to work for the junta has made matters worse for military due to paralysing of bureaucracy. Public hospitals are deserted. Government offices left dark. And the trains don't leave the stations.

The growing civil disobedience movement is thwarting the generals' plans to control the political situation in the country.

"The military needs to prove that they can manage the country well as a government. But if we... the civil servants don't work, their plan to take power will fail," Thida, a public university lecturer who asked to use a pseudonym, told AFP Monday as cities were brought to a standstill by the largest strike yet.

Thida has refused to teach her online classes. Work stoppage in private sector has hollowed out offices and factories. Even many bank branches are shut.

But it is the civil servants' swelling ranks within the resistance that has the junta particularly rattled.

Without them, it is unable to collect taxes, send out electricity bills, test the population for Covid-19 or simply keep the country running.

The spectre of a financial crisis -- already brewing because of the pandemic downturn and a decline in foreign investment -- looms large.

Cracks starting to show

It remains unclear how many of the roughly one million public sector workers are participating.

One crowdsourced survey found members of all 24 government ministries are now involved, while the UN special rapporteur on&nbsp; 
Myanmar has estimated three-quarters of the civil servants are on strike.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/coup-chaos-leaves-employers-fretting-over-paying-staff-in-myanmar-366244">Coup chaos leaves employers fretting over paying staff in Myanmar</a>

Civil servants' absence has begun to show its effect.

Nearly one-third of the nation's hospitals are no longer functioning, coup leader Min Aung Hlaing said this week.

Decrying medical professionals' failure to fulfil their duties, he hinted that working doctors and teachers would soon receive cash rewards, according to remarks reported by state media Tuesday.

One doctor told AFP that staff shortages meant his hospital has had to turn away new patients. Medical "cover teams" have formed to provide emergency treatment to protesters under fire from rubber bullets and live ammunition.

Paper pushing in government departments has all but halted, according to local media reports, and around the country clerks, drivers and administrators have been dismissed over their absence.

"The military didn't anticipate that a large part of the civil service would walk out and leave them without a state apparatus," said an analyst who asked to remain anonymous as the junta has detained more than 700 of its critics.

(With inputs from AFP)

Refusal of many Myanmar's civil servants to work for the junta has made matters worse for military due to paralysing of bureaucracy. Public hospitals are deserted.

Refusal of many Myanmar's civil servants to work for the junta has made matters worse for military due to paralysing of bureaucracy. Public hospitals are deserted. Government offices left dark. And the trains don't leave the stations. The growing civil disobedience movement is thwarting the generals' plans to control the political situation in the country. "The military needs to prove that they can manage the country well as a government. But if we... the civil servants don't work, their plan to take power will fail," Thida, a public university lecturer who asked to use a pseudonym, told AFP Monday as cities were brought to a standstill by the largest strike yet. Thida has refused to teach her online classes. Work stoppage in private sector has hollowed out offices and factories. Even many bank branches are shut. But it is the civil servants' swelling ranks within the resistance that has the junta particularly rattled. Without them, it is unable to collect taxes, send out electricity bills, test the population for Covid-19 or simply keep the country running. The spectre of a financial crisis -- already brewing because of the pandemic downturn and a decline in foreign investment -- looms large. Cracks starting to show It remains unclear how many of the roughly one million public sector workers are participating. One crowdsourced survey found members of all 24 government ministries are now involved, while the UN special rapporteur on Myanmar has estimated three-quarters of the civil servants are on strike. Also Read | Coup chaos leaves employers fretting over paying staff in Myanmar Civil servants' absence has begun to show its effect. Nearly one-third of the nation's hospitals are no longer functioning, coup leader Min Aung Hlaing said this week. Decrying medical professionals' failure to fulfil their duties, he hinted that working doctors and teachers would soon receive cash rewards, according to remarks reported by state media Tuesday. One doctor told AFP that staff shortages meant his hospital has had to turn away new patients. Medical "cover teams" have formed to provide emergency treatment to protesters under fire from rubber bullets and live ammunition. Paper pushing in government departments has all but halted, according to local media reports, and around the country clerks, drivers and administrators have been dismissed over their absence. "The military didn't anticipate that a large part of the civil service would walk out and leave them without a state apparatus," said an analyst who asked to remain anonymous as the junta has detained more than 700 of its critics. (With inputs from AFP)

Myanmar: Civil servants' strike makes it difficult for military

Myanmar military junta's foreign minister on Wednesday visited Thailand as efforts were on by the regional countries to broker end to three weeks of deadly unrest that has&nbsp;been triggered by military coup. Indonesia is in talks with the military junta as well.

Foreign minister Wunna Maung Lwin held talks with his counterparts from Thailand and Indonesia in what was the first known face-to-face meetings between a senior junta member and foreign government officials.

The international condemnation over the coup has not deterred military junta so far. Daily nationwide protests have rocked Myanmar ever since government headed by Aung San Suu Kyi was removed by the military in February 1 coup.

Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said she expressed concerns about the safety and welfare of Myanmar citizens and reiterated a need for an "inclusive democratic transition process".

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"We ask all parties to exercise restraint and not use violence to avoid casualties and bloodshed," she told reporters in Jakarta.

Marsudi has been on a "shuttle diplomacy" mission over the past two weeks discussing the Myanmar crisis during visits to Brunei and Singapore as well as phone calls with other Southeast Asian counterparts.

She had hoped to travel to Naypyidaw after her visit to Bangkok to directly convey messages from Indonesia and other countries but confirmed the visit had to be postponed.

<h1>'Stop negotiating with them'</h1>

For second consecutive day on Wednesday, Indonesian embassy in Yangon saw gathering of protesters that decriedn Indonesian efforts to have a dialogue with military junta.

Angered that Jakarta was talking with the junta government -- officially named the State Administration Council -- demonstrators carried signs reading: "Stop negotiating with them" and "Indonesia, don't support dictator".

"The Military's State Administration Council is not our legitimate government," said participant Seinn Lae Maung, who had a Myanmar flag painted on her face.

"Please respect our votes and do hear our voices."

Marsudi later hit back at the criticism, warning: "To do nothing is not an option."

(With AFP inputs)

Myanmar military junta's foreign minister on Wednesday visited Thailand as efforts were on by the regional countries to broker end to three weeks of deadly unrest that has been triggered by military coup.

Myanmar military junta's foreign minister on Wednesday visited Thailand as efforts were on by the regional countries to broker end to three weeks of deadly unrest that has been triggered by military coup. Indonesia is in talks with the military junta as well. Foreign minister Wunna Maung Lwin held talks with his counterparts from Thailand and Indonesia in what was the first known face-to-face meetings between a senior junta member and foreign government officials. The international condemnation over the coup has not deterred military junta so far. Daily nationwide protests have rocked Myanmar ever since government headed by Aung San Suu Kyi was removed by the military in February 1 coup. Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said she expressed concerns about the safety and welfare of Myanmar citizens and reiterated a need for an "inclusive democratic transition process". × "We ask all parties to exercise restraint and not use violence to avoid casualties and bloodshed," she told reporters in Jakarta. Marsudi has been on a "shuttle diplomacy" mission over the past two weeks discussing the Myanmar crisis during visits to Brunei and Singapore as well as phone calls with other Southeast Asian counterparts. She had hoped to travel to Naypyidaw after her visit to Bangkok to directly convey messages from Indonesia and other countries but confirmed the visit had to be postponed. 'Stop negotiating with them' For second consecutive day on Wednesday, Indonesian embassy in Yangon saw gathering of protesters that decriedn Indonesian efforts to have a dialogue with military junta. Angered that Jakarta was talking with the junta government -- officially named the State Administration Council -- demonstrators carried signs reading: "Stop negotiating with them" and "Indonesia, don't support dictator". "The Military's State Administration Council is not our legitimate government," said participant Seinn Lae Maung, who had a Myanmar flag painted on her face. "Please respect our votes and do hear our voices." Marsudi later hit back at the criticism, warning: "To do nothing is not an option." (With AFP inputs)

Myanmar military junta's foreign minister in talks with Indonesia, Thailand

Myanmar Military Junta could take actions against media portals for using the word coup. The military has threatened to withdraw the licenses of such media organisations.

Your Story: Myanmar Military Junta threatens to take actions against media portals

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