Deadly unrest reported in Myanmar after opposition urges 'defensive war'

FILE PHOTO: A Myanmar's soldier stands guard near the congress compound in Naypyitaw, Myanmar, February 2, 2021. REUTERS/Stringer

(Reuters) - At least 20 people have been killed in fighting between militias and Myanmar's ruling military, a witness and local media said on Friday, in the worst violence since opponents of the junta called this week for a "people's defensive war".

The National Unity Government (NUG) formed to resist the army's Feb. 1 takeover called on Tuesday for a revolt https://reut.rs/3zWzZY7 against military rule, in an apparent effort to coordinate groups fighting the army and convince soldiers and state officials to switch sides.