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Myanmar’s military recaptured Kyaukme after a three-week battle, leaving the once-thriving town of 46,000 largely deserted with destroyed government buildings and infrastructure.

The strategic town has changed hands twice since the 2021 coup, prized for its location on a highway connecting Myanmar to China.

An AP journalist given rare military access found charred buildings, unexploded ordnance, and thousands of residents too fearful to return near the front line.

KYAUKME, Myanmar — Ten days after it was recaptured by Myanmar’s military government, the town of Kyaukme stands eerily silent. Schools have reopened but the town’s once-busy market is mostly empty. Vendors at some sta

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