CNI News

3 October 2025

The leaders of the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) need to carefully consider ways to minimize losses, said Colonel Khun Okkar, Chairman of the Pa-O National Liberation Organization (PNLO-NCA/S), to CNI News.

As the Myanmar Tatmadaw is currently attacking TNLA-controlled Kyaukme, calls have been made for TNLA leadership to adopt strategies that reduce casualties and destruction.

At present, TNLA is said to be facing a shift toward a more defensive position, with dwindling alliances and weaker forces compared to before. Meanwhile, the Myanmar Tatmadaw’s manpower, equipment, and firepower have been replenished, giving it certain advantages on the battlefield.

Towns that have been captured by the TNLA

Colonel Khun Okkar explained: “In general, there are always ups and downs in war. Right now, TNLA seems to be leaning toward a more difficult, defensive phase. Their alliances have become fewer, their forces have become smaller, while the Tatmadaw has fully restored its manpower and weaponry. When the other side gains such strength, naturally, the advantage shifts back to them. That’s why what TNLA gained during Operation 1027 is now being pushed back. War has its ups and downs, and at this point, it is moving toward a downturn for TNLA. So, the leadership needs to plan carefully to minimize losses when setbacks occur.”

Fierce clashes continue near Kyaukme town, where government offices, homes, and other buildings have been destroyed by fire, forcing civilians to flee.

Although TNLA still maintains control of areas such as Mogok and Hsipaw, Colonel Khun Okkar suggested it would be better for them to withdraw from Kyaukme in order to reduce further losses:

Lt-Gen Ko Ko Oo of the Myanmar Tatmadaw and Lt-Gen Tar Jock Ja, Vice Chairman of the TNLA

“In my view, there’s no need to keep fighting in Kyaukme. They already control many other places—Mogoke, Hsipaw, and others. Concentrating too much strength in one place will only bring heavier losses. If they retreat, they should do so in a way that minimizes damage. That’s part of warfare.”

The TNLA, alongside the Kokang (MNDAA), Arakan Army (AA), KNDF, BNRA, BPLA, MDY-PDF, DPLA, PLA and others, launched Operation 1027 on October 27, 2023, across northern Shan State and parts of Mandalay Region.

Through this campaign, TNLA captured Namkham, Nansang, Mantong, Mong Ngor, Namtu, Kyaukme, Hsipaw, Naungcho, Momeik, Monglon, Kutkai, and Mogok. However, following counteroffensives by the Myanmar Tatmadaw, Naungcho was recaptured, and government forces advanced close to Mogoke.

Now, the Tatmadaw is also pressing to seize Kyaukme and preparing further operations toward Hsipaw.

Meanwhile, TNLA and the Tatmadaw have held three rounds of talks in Kunming, China—the latest in late August 2025—but no agreement has been reached.