Trump Calls for Ceasefire Between Cambodia and Thailand Amid Ongoing Border Clashes
On Saturday, Donald Trump took to Truth Social to announce that he had reached out to the leaders of Cambodia and Thailand, urging them to implement an immediate ceasefire in response to escalating border clashes. During his private visit to his golf courses in Scotland, Trump revealed that both countries have agreed to convene and expedite the process of establishing a ceasefire and ultimately achieving lasting peace.
In his statement, Trump highlighted that both nations expressed gratitude for his concern and intervention. Cambodia has accepted his request for a ceasefire, while Thailand emphasized the importance of dialogue between the two countries. Despite Trump’s outreach, shelling along the border persisted overnight.
The response from Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet was positive, as he confirmed Cambodia’s agreement to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. He stated that Trump’s mediation could significantly help protect the lives of soldiers and civilians alike. Meanwhile, Thailand indicated a willingness to consider a ceasefire but maintained that dialogue with Cambodia must precede any formal agreement. Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai expressed gratitude to Trump for his concern and reiterated that Thailand seeks genuine intentions from Cambodia before moving forward.
Since fighting erupted on July 24, at least 33 soldiers and civilians have lost their lives, and thousands have been displaced from their homes. Trump expressed his eagerness to resume trade discussions with both nations, although he stressed that negotiations would only be appropriate once the fighting ceases. This comes just ahead of the implementation of new U.S. tariffs on goods imported from Cambodia and Thailand, which are set to take effect on August 1. Unless an agreement is reached, businesses importing from these countries will face a hefty 36% tax.
Interestingly, Trump’s involvement in the situation comes amid contrasting sentiments from Thai officials. Just a day prior, Thailand’s Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa indicated that mediation from a third country was unnecessary at this stage. Meanwhile, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has previously offered to facilitate discussions between Thailand and Cambodia.
Earlier on Saturday, Cambodia reiterated its call for an "immediate" ceasefire and a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict. After teeing off at his luxurious Trump Turnberry resort in South Ayrshire, Trump shared that he had spoken with both Prime Minister Hun Manet and PM Wechayachai, expressing his hope for a peaceful conclusion to the situation. "When all is done, and peace is at hand, I look forward to concluding our trading agreements with both!" Trump noted.
The tensions between Thailand and Cambodia are rooted in historical disputes that date back over a century, stemming from the colonial-era borders established during the French occupation of Cambodia. Each nation has accused the other of initiating the recent conflict, with Thailand alleging that Cambodian forces deployed drones for surveillance, while Cambodia contends that Thai soldiers breached prior agreements by advancing near a Khmer-Hindu temple.
As the situation evolves, the international community watches closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution and an end to the violence that has plagued this region.
