The Karen National Union (KNU) issued a statement on May 9 expressing grave concerns about the military council’s plans to construct a nuclear power plant using Russian technology, citing serious risks to the safety, security, and wellbeing of both Myanmar and Thai citizens. This announcement came following the Karen National Liberation Army’s (KNLA) recapture of the Theechaung area in Dawei Township, Tanintharyi Region. The statement addresses both the immediate military situation and broader security concerns for the region.
The statement details how the Myanmar military’s occupation of KNU’s Myeik-Dawei District territory in 1997 led to military conflicts and forced displacement of local residents. The KNU’s Brigade 4 believes that regaining control of the Theechaung military base in the Myeik-Dawei region is crucial for guaranteeing the security of people living in both Myanmar and Thailand. The organization emphasizes that military action against the military council is necessary to protect people’s right to self-determination and to free them from the Myanmar military’s violence.
The KNU expresses particular concern about the military council’s plans to build a nuclear power plant using Russian technology, identifying two potential construction sites: one in central Bago Region and another in the Dawei Special Economic Zone near the Thai border in Tanintharyi Region. The organization emphasizes its historical peaceful coexistence with Thai people and reiterates its commitment to maintaining respectful and friendly relations as good neighbors. The KNU also seeks understanding from Thai citizens regarding their military operations, highlighting their dedication to ensuring regional stability and security. The statement underscores the organization’s stance on maintaining permanent peace and cooperative relations with Thailand, while continuing their resistance against the military council’s oppressive actions that threaten both Myanmar and Thai citizens’ safety and well-being.
