Thailand, Cambodia consent negotiations after Trump threat
(MENAFN) Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to begin ceasefire talks following a warning from U.S. President Donald Trump, who threatened to suspend trade negotiations if the two nations continued their military clashes. Despite the announcement, hostilities between the countries have persisted.
The conflict stems from a long-standing territorial dispute, dating back to the colonial era, caused by ambiguous border demarcations on a French-drawn map from the early 20th century.
Tensions escalated after five Thai soldiers were injured by landmines on Wednesday in the disputed zone. Thailand claimed the mines had been recently planted, sparking a firefight the following day. Each side has blamed the other for initiating the violence.
So far, at least 34 people — both civilians and military personnel — have been killed, and tens of thousands have been forced to flee their homes.
On Saturday, Trump announced via Truth Social that he had spoken with both nations’ leaders and called for an “immediate ceasefire.” He stated that while the U.S. is negotiating trade deals with both countries, he would not proceed if fighting continued.
Trump later confirmed that both governments had agreed to meet and work toward a ceasefire and lasting peace. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said on Sunday that Cambodia had accepted an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire” and that Trump had informed him Thailand had done the same.
Thailand’s Foreign Ministry acknowledged that Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai had spoken with Trump and agreed “in principle” to the ceasefire, while also demanding that Cambodia demonstrate sincerity.
However, violence resumed on Sunday. Cambodia accused Thailand of launching a significant ground assault using tanks and artillery, while Thailand accused Cambodia of violating humanitarian law and lacking good faith.
Malaysian Foreign Affairs Minister Mohamad Hasan announced that both countries would hold talks in Kuala Lumpur on Monday, with Malaysia offering to facilitate the peace process.
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