Myanmar military intensified air attacks and abuses during election, UN investigators say

In a separate development, UN investigators have reported an escalation of abuses by Myanmar's military. The Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM) documented intensified aerial attacks on civilians and the commission of war crimes, including torture and sexual violence, in the period leading up to and during the December 2025-January 2026 election. The IIMM noted deliberate strikes targeting civilian infrastructure and observed an increased reliance on drones and paramotors by the military.

The allegations against Russia highlight concerns over the treatment of captives in the ongoing conflict. The systematic nature of the reported abuses, including sexual violence and beatings, points to potential widespread violations of international humanitarian law. The Russian government's response frames these accusations as politically motivated fabrications.

The UN investigators' findings regarding Myanmar detail a pattern of violence and war crimes coinciding with a significant electoral period. The deliberate targeting of civilian areas and infrastructure, coupled with the enhanced use of aerial technology like drones, suggests a strategic effort to instill terror and disrupt civilian life. These actions are documented as war crimes by the IIMM.