The National Unity Government (NUG) warned that the junta's attempt to build a nuclear power plant could jeopardise the security and stability of countries in the region and urged them to remain vigilant.
At an NUG press briefing held on 13 May 2025, U Nay Phone Latt, a spokesperson for the NUG Prime Minister's Office said: “This issue could seriously threaten the future security and stability of Myanmar and its people. But it won’t stop there, it could also affect the safety and stability of other countries in the region and their citizens. That’s why it’s crucial for regional nations to stand with the people of Myanmar and the revolutionary forces, and to respond to this issue with the urgency and seriousness it requires.”
During junta leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing's visit to Russia in March 2025, the two countries signed a joint agreement to build a small-scale nuclear facility in Myanmar. According to Russian media, the nuclear power plant to be built by Russia will feature a small modular reactor with an initial capacity of 110 megawatts, which can be expanded to 330 megawatts if needed.
U Nay Phone Latt criticised the project. He described it as a reckless move saying: “Terrorist junta leader Min Aung Hlaing and his associates are misusing taxpayers’ money just to cling to power. And as if that’s not enough, they’re making reckless decisions—like signing deals with a foreign country to build a nuclear power plant.”
The Karen National Union (KNU) has suggested that the junta is planning to construct the nuclear power plant either in central Bago Region or within the Dawei Special Economic Zone in Dawei Township, Tanintharyi Region. The KNU is currently carrying out military operations against the junta in Tanintharyi Region.
The KNU also voiced its concerns about the project in a 9 May statement about its military activities in Hteekhee Town in Dawei Township, an area near to the Thai border that is a possible location for the nuclear power plant. The KNU warned that if it is built there it could threaten the security, safety, and well-being of communities on both sides of the border.
