Ethnic rebels launch attacks across northern Myanmar

Ethnic rebel groups launch coordinated attacks on Myanmar military, challenging junta rule. Three groups, TNLA, AA, and MNDAA, launch "military operation" in Shan state. Fighting reported in Lashio, Muse, Chinshwehaw, and Laukkai. China calls for all sides to prevent escalation. KIA uncertain if fighters joined attack.

An alliance of ethnic rebel groups in Myanmar launched coordinated attacks on the military across the country's north on Friday, posing a fresh challenge to the junta as it struggles to quell resistance to its rule.

The military's 2021 putsch sparked renewed fighting with powerful ethnic rebel groups in northern Shan state, home to a planned billion-dollar rail link, part of China's Belt and Road global infrastructure project.

The Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), the Arakan Army (AA) and the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) launched a "military operation", they said in a statement.

Pro-military Telegram channels said the rebels were attacking 12 towns or settlements across a swathe of Shan state around 100 kilometres (62 miles) across.

The three rebel groups — which analysts say can call on at least 15,000 fighters between them — did not immediately provide details on casualties or whether they had taken territory.

A junta spokesman did not immediately respond to an AFP request for comment.

The MNDAA said its fighters had closed the roads from the trade hub of Lashio to Chinshwehaw and Muse on the China border ahead of a "major offensive".