Myanmar ethnic minorities claim gains in junta offensive

This handout photo taken and released on October 27, 2023 by the Kokang Information Network shows Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) Major General Peng Deqi (centre R) commanding operations against Myanmar's military near Lashio township in Myanmar’s northern Shan State. - AFP

YANGON (AFP): An alliance of Myanmar ethnic minority groups said it made more gains in its offensive against the ruling junta on Friday, with the regime vowing it would hit back at the biggest military challenge it has faced since it seized power.

Fighting has raged for a week across a wide area of northern Shan state near the China border, forcing more than 23,000 people from their homes, according to the UN.