Ta’ang Groups Accuse China of Backing Myanmar War Crimes

Six Ta’ang ethnic rights organisations have accused China of aiding Myanmar’s military junta in committing war crimes, citing the supply of weapons and coercive pressure on resistance forces. In a joint statement released Thursday, the groups—including the Ta’ang Students and Youth Union—called for international sanctions and urgent action from the United Nations.

The statement alleges that China has provided modern arms and technology to the junta, including equipment seized by resistance fighters in Madaya Township last month. Crates of Chinese-made ammunition and mine-clearing charges were reportedly recovered by the Mandalay People’s Defense Force, which fights alongside the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA).

TNLA officials say Beijing has pressured them to surrender liberated territories in northern Shan State and Mandalay Region, where the group has gained ground since launching Operation 1027 in October 2023. General Tar Bone Kyaw described China’s interference as “self-interested” and a major obstacle to the revolution.

Airstrikes in TNLA-held areas have killed 56 civilians—including 13 children—and injured over 130 in the past two months. On Thursday night, a junta jet dropped a 500-lb bomb on a monastery in Mogoke, killing eight and injuring seven more, according to TNLA reports.

The Ta’ang groups are urging foreign governments to halt aviation fuel and arms supplies to the junta, and to support international prosecution efforts. They also call on the UN to recognise anti-regime bodies and help build a federal democracy in Myanmar.

Meanwhile, China has publicly backed the junta’s plan to hold elections in December, with Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirming support during talks with Myanmar’s Foreign Minister Than Swe earlier this week.

As China-brokered peace talks loom, the Ta’ang organisations warn that without global intervention, Myanmar’s civilian population will continue to bear the brunt of escalating violence.

-2025-08-16