CNI News
30 September 2025
Three Karen armed groups held talks on military conflict and peace issues in Karen State, and observers are watching closely to see what agreements were reached.
The meeting was held on September 28, 2025, at Thakkatay Hsan Pya Village in Myawaddy District, Karen State. Leaders from the Karen Border Guard Force (BGF/KNA), the Democratic Karen Benevolent Army (DKBA), and the Karen National Union/Karen National Liberation Army–Peace Council (KNU/KNLA-PC) attended the discussions.
Col. Saw Kyaw Nyunt of the KNU/KNLA-PC told CNI News that because armed conflicts are widespread, the three groups discussed cooperating on peace-related matters.
“This was a meeting of three Karen armed groups on peace issues, so we will continue to work on matters related to peace. But if we say ‘peace’ at this moment, others might laugh, because everyone knows armed conflicts are spreading across the country. In Karen State as well, battles are ongoing without pause. Under these circumstances, peace feels very far away for us.”, he said.
Leaders of BGF, DKBA, and KNU/KNLA-PC meeting on September 28, 2025
According to him, the three groups also discussed the ongoing armed conflicts they face, the challenges and difficulties, and ways to reduce the suffering of civilians and prevent the conflict from spreading further.
“We are facing many difficulties and challenges right now. Because of this armed conflict, ordinary people are enduring constant hardship. What we want is to reduce their suffering as much as possible and prevent the fighting from expanding. That is why our three groups came together, exchanged views, and discussed. It was that kind of meeting.”, said Col. Saw Kyaw Nyunt.
Meanwhile, in Karen State, clashes continue between the Karen National Union (KNU), Spring Revolution forces, and the Myanmar Tatmadaw. These conflicts have displaced many civilians and disrupted border trade, leading to rising living costs.
In addition, since the KNU has announced that it will not recognize or participate in the upcoming December 28, 2025 elections, there are fears that fighting in Karen State may intensify during the election period.
