The Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) spokesperson Tar Yay Oo announced today at a press conference that talks between the TNLA and the military council will take place this August through Chinese mediation, following TNLA’s withdrawal from Naung Cho town in northern Shan State. The withdrawal was necessitated by the military council’s targeting of civilians through airstrikes and heavy artillery attacks. The TNLA spokesperson explained that the decision to withdraw from Naung Cho was made to protect civilians from the military council’s continuous bombardment using aircraft, drones, and heavy weapons, including chemical weapons.
During July, more than 70 clashes occurred between military council forces and TNLA troops. Throughout this period, the military council conducted 56 airstrikes, 1,655 artillery attacks, and 661 drone strikes on Naung Cho town. The fighting spread across numerous locations in Naung Cho Township, including Kyauk Taw, Kyauk Kyan, Nampatak, Namun, Yay Maung Tan, Kyauk Pyut, Naung Lin, Umkha, Myat Chi Nu, Kathe Myaing, Artillery Base 606, Aung Chan Thar, Yay Nya Oo, Goke Htate, Naung Cho town, Kon San, Shwe Nyaung Pin, Taung Ward, Let Gyi Taw, Ngatkyar Lay, Naung Pyit, Lway Kwin, Lawkphan, Che San, Ingyin Kine, Pan Sone, and Ho Naung villages.
Currently, the military council continues to conduct airstrikes on urban areas controlled by the TNLA, including Kyaukme, Hsipaw, and Mogok, resulting in numerous civilian casualties. The TNLA has stated that during the upcoming talks mediated by China, they will maintain their position of representing and defending the interests of civilians. The exact date for these talks has not yet been determined, but the TNLA confirms they are preparing for the meeting. The spokesperson emphasized that their primary focus during negotiations will be to advocate for civilian protection and rights.
