China Increases Military Patrols Near Myanmar Amid Civil War Concerns

China strengthens military patrols near Myanmar border as civil war intensifies. Troops test security, with live-fire drills planned. Beijing urges safety for its citizens.

China’s military is on high alert this week, carrying out armed patrols near the Myanmar border. This move comes as intense fighting continues in Myanmar's civil war, raising fears of the conflict spilling over into China.

Troops were sent to Yunnan province on Monday. Their task? To test how ready they are to keep the border areas safe. This action follows months of rising tensions, with ethnic militias in Myanmar fighting against the country's military in the northeast, close to China. Earlier this year, a stray artillery shell hurt five people on the Chinese side.

Live-Fire Drills to Test Military Readiness

From Tuesday to Thursday, live-fire drills will happen in four places, including two in Ruili city. These exercises aim to see how quickly the military can respond, control the situation, and work together effectively during a crisis.

China’s military already held similar drills near the Myanmar border last November. This time, the situation is more tense. China’s Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, recently said that China is against chaos and war in Myanmar.

In January, Beijing helped arrange a cease-fire in Myanmar, but that deal fell apart in June when new attacks began. Myanmar’s military leader, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, hinted that foreign countries were helping the ethnic militias, possibly suggesting China.

During his visit to Myanmar, Wang Yi urged Myanmar to make sure Chinese citizens and projects are kept safe. The Chinese Embassy also reminded citizens in Shan state to boost their security and avoid conflict zones.

As the situation develops, China is staying alert, focusing on keeping its border and people safe.