By Maung Dagon/MPA
Civilians across Myanmar are gripped by mounting fear as they endure relentless aerial bombardments.
Concerns are rising that attacks will intensify following junta leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing’s recent arms deals secured during visits to Russia and Belarus, according to local sources.
The junta leader, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, made official visits to Russia and Belarus from March 3 to March 9.
“Even when there are no specific trips planned, there’s always a reason to be concerned. Min Aung Hlaing is like a wounded tiger—determined to inflict harm until his last breath. We must remain vigilant and strategically aware to evade his cruelty,” said a 35-year-old internally displaced man from Myaing Township, Magway Region.
He speculated that the junta had likely secured substantial arms acquisitions from Russia and Belarus through covert channels. These weapons, he feared, would be used to further suppress civilians, potentially escalating violence to unprecedented levels.
Alternatively, he suggested that the junta might also be exporting raw materials for weapons production from its Defense Production Industries (KaPaSa) to these countries.
A military analyst monitoring the situation remarked, “At this point, ground operations are unlikely to expand further due to a depletion of troops. However, we can expect a more intensified air campaign in the near future.”
A displaced resident of Sagaing Township, Sagaing Region, echoed these concerns, expressing deep apprehension that additional weapons from Russia and Belarus would strengthen the junta’s military capabilities, leading to more devastating airstrikes.
“The expansion of their military arsenal could significantly enhance their operational capacity. Our primary fear is the increased risk of airstrikes, given their relentless aerial bombardments this year,” he stated.
Similarly, a female resident from Kyaukme Township, northern Shan State, shared her daily fears of airstrikes, emphasizing that the junta’s acquisition of advanced weaponry would only worsen the already dire situation.
In response, residents in conflict zones have intensified preparations for airstrikes, including awareness campaigns and the construction of bomb shelters.
“We are building more bomb shelters due to the constant threat of aerial attacks. This is happening not only in areas previously hit by airstrikes but also in regions proactively preparing for potential assaults,” reported a 30-year-old Sagaing resident who provides logistical support for various People’s Defense Forces.
Currently, the junta is conducting indiscriminate attacks on both military and civilian areas in territories it has lost control over, including Myanmar’s central dry zone. These assaults involve aircraft, armed helicopters, drones, and heavy artillery, demonstrating a blatant disregard for civilian safety.
A political analyst commented on the junta’s recent activities, “They are likely to escalate their air operations further. This trip may have secured additional weapons, strengthening their military capabilities. China’s tacit support has also emboldened them. Previously, they only vaguely mentioned holding elections without specifying a date. However, during their visit to Russia and Belarus, they confidently announced that elections would be held in December or January next year. This newfound assertiveness suggests they are determined to push forward with their agenda at any cost.”
Following Min Aung Hlaing’s visit to southern Shan State in September 2024—during which he vowed to reclaim lost territories—the regime has significantly intensified airstrikes, resulting in a sharp increase in mass casualties compared to previous years.
On Dec.15 of last year, Russia completed the delivery of the final two of six SU-30SM fighter jets, capable of flying at twice the speed of sound. These jets were part of a US$400 million loan agreement signed in 2018.
During Min Aung Hlaing’s trip to Russia and Belarus in March, details regarding arms procurement remained undisclosed. However, reports indicate that the junta signed up to 10 agreements with Russia, including plans for the construction of a nuclear power plant, and 13 agreements with Belarus, according to official statements from both nations.
