Ethnic Armed Groups and Myanmar Junta Dispute Control of Strategic Towns

Conflicting claims emerge over Lashio and Mogok as fighting intensifies in northern regions.

Ethnic groups MNDAA and TNLA claim capture of Lashio and Mogok, key military and economic centers.
Junta denies loss of Lashio, stating clashes are ongoing in the town's outskirts.
Videos and social media posts show celebrations by residents in captured areas.
Renewed offensives follow the breakdown of a Chinese-brokered ceasefire in January.
Military airstrikes and civilian casualties reported amidst intensified clashes.