The Irrawaddy News

After months of threats and pressure tactics, the United States on Saturday bombed Venezuela and toppled authoritarian left-wing leader Nicolas Maduro, who was seized to face trial in New York.

Myanmar's junta said on Sunday it would release more than 6,000 prisoners as part of an annual amnesty to mark the country's independence day.

The junta is using heavy artillery and airstrikes in a bid to defend the strategic town on the border between Sagaing and Kachin State.

For 35 years, Myanmars elections have followed a familiar pattern: real victories for voters are rejected, a free and fair election is impossible and voter turnout irrelevant.

On the eve of the military-organized election, leading independent journalists from Myanmar discussed what lies ahead, and what the resistance must do to unite.

Anti-regime groups launch offensive in town covered by second phase of rigged poll.

After five years of brutal military rule, residents of Myanmars largest city voted with their feet in the first phase of the juntas election on Sunday.

With all serious opposition politicians in jail or exile, a widespread boycott, and the process heavily rigged in the juntas favor, the USDP ratchets up a widely expected win.

Beijings envoy Deng Xijun said the militarys widely condemned poll is the product of top-level agreements, underscoring Chinas strategic stakes in Myanmar.