The offensive initiated by Karenni joint resistance forces against the Junta's 134th and 135th Infantry Battalions in Hpasawng Township of Karenni State on May 4. has led to intensified clashes.

Colonel Phone Naing, the Adjutant General of the Karenni Army (KA), reported that at least 20 Junta soldiers were killed in the clashes, with four comrades from the resistance side martyred.

"Currently our offensive has briefly paused due to heavy bombardments by the Junta's aircraft. We simultaneously targeted both the 134th and 135th Battalions. There were casualties on both sides. We mourn the loss of 4 comrades and the injuries sustained.

We estimate over 20 fatalities and numerous injuries among the enemy forces”, he said.

Since February 29, the resistance forces have been steadily capturing Junta bases in Hpasawng, with only the 134th and 135th Battalions remaining under the regime’s control.

"Fighting is still ongoing in Hpasawng as both of the Junta's battalions fiercely resist, preventing our troops from seizing control thus far”, Tar Eh Soe, spokesperson for the Karenni Nationalities Defence Force (KNDF) also noted.

Amidst the intense clashes, the Junta deployed significant air and artillery support to prevent the two battalions from being overtaken by the resistance forces, as stated by the Kantarawaddy Times' frontline correspondent.

"On May 5, they were conducting airstrikes and shelling almost incessantly for a duration of 24 hours”, he said.

Colonel Phone Naing stated that the fighting continued May 6, however, the ground offensive had to be pulled back slightly due to the Junta’s relentless airstrikes.

He added that the Junta had conducted nearly 30 airstrikes so far, dropping over 300 bombs in total, to defend the two battalions.