Myanmar has descended into quasi-civil war, but neither side has means to win it

13 Sept 11:06 Key points summarised by AI

The military coup in Myanmar, led by Gen Min Aung Hlaing a year ago, has failed to establish control or achieve peace, instead escalating violence and causing severe economic contraction.
An unprecedented popular resistance, including a Civil Disobedience Movement and the formation of the People's Defense Force (PDF) by the National Unity Government (NUG), has challenged the junta's authority.
The conflict has evolved into a quasi-civil war, marked by intense clashes and humanitarian crises, yet neither the well-armed Tatmadaw nor the fragmented resistance appears capable of a decisive victory.
Despite some collaboration, disunity among various ethnic armed groups and the NUG/PDF complicates the resistance's efforts, with some groups fighting each other or remaining neutral.

Bai Lu meet-and-greet cancelled days after China’s safety warning

Today 15:28 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister announced the government will seek clarification from the Chinese Embassy regarding its recent travel advisory warning Chinese nationals about safety concerns in Thailand.
The travel advisory is anticipated to negatively impact the number of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand, despite recent increases in arrivals.
A meet-and-greet event featuring Chinese actress Bai Lu, a WeTV Global Ambassador, was abruptly cancelled just days after the Chinese Embassy issued its safety warning, though no official reason was provided.
The Chinese Embassy's advisory urged citizens to beware of job scams, fraudulent investments, suspicious travel arrangements, and the risk of illegal detention or being lured to the Thai-Myanmar border.
Chinese nationals were advised to verify job offers, use legitimate transport, avoid high-risk border areas, protect personal documents, and keep family informed of travel plans.