On May 31, 2024, the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force (KNDF) commemorated its third anniversary since its formation and the beginning of its revolutionary activities. KNDF’s adjutant general Khu Reedu noted that 368 KNDF comrades have laid down their lives during this daunting three-year struggle.

"Although we have achieved military triumphs, we must also acknowledge the significant costs we have incurred”, he said.

In the three years since the establishment of KNDF, its achievements include:

the battle to capture Mese town, operations to seize Junta military fortifications along the Thai-Karenni State border, the battle to capture the Shadaw tactical command base, and 'Operation 1111' which involved urban warfare in Loikaw, and raids against Junta bases in Mongpai (Mobye) and Pekon.

Tar Eh Soe, the information officer for KNDF, remarked that the majority of the fallen comrades lost their lives in skirmishes as they confronted the enemy.

"Many died in active combat, while others were killed by shelling, gunfire, airstrikes, and landmines”, he said.

Among all the resistance forces based in Karenni State, KNDF stands out as the most formidable, boasting 28 battalions and 7 tactical command units, with a combined troop strength exceeding 10,000 as of May this year.

Following the Junta's activation of the conscription law, an increased number of new recruits contacted and joined KNDF.

On June 1, the Progressive Karenni People Force (PKPF) announced that a total of 578 comrades from various resistance factions in Karenni State have lost their lives during the three years following the coup.