On Saturday, the border military conflict between Thailand and Cambodia entered its third day. US President Trump stated that he had called the leaders of Cambodia and Thailand, urging both countries to cease fire and ultimately achieve peace.
Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to share about his conversations with the leaders of Cambodia and Thailand. In the first post, he mentioned his discussion with the Prime Minister of Cambodia regarding ending the war with Thailand. He also mentioned talking to the Acting Prime Minister of Thailand, making the same ceasefire request to end the ongoing devastating war.
“It’s a coincidence that we are currently dealing with trade issues with both of these countries, but if they are at war, we don’t want to do any business with either country – I’ve told them!!” Trump said.
He further mentioned that the call with Cambodia had ended, and he expected to speak with the Prime Minister of Cambodia again based on Thailand’s position regarding ceasefire and peace negotiations.
“I’m trying to simplify this complex situation! This war has caused many deaths, but it reminds me of the conflict between Pakistan and India, which eventually succeeded in a ceasefire,” the President said.
A few minutes later, Trump posted again, saying he had just had a very good conversation with the Acting Prime Minister of Thailand. “Thailand, like Cambodia, hopes to achieve an immediate ceasefire and peace.”
“I am now going to convey this message to the Prime Minister of Cambodia. After talking to both sides, ceasefire, peace, and prosperity seem to be natural. We’ll see it soon!” Trump remarked.
About half an hour later, Trump posted again, saying he had a very good conversation with the Prime Minister of Cambodia, “introducing him to the discussions I had with Thailand and its Acting Prime Minister.”
“Both sides are seeking an immediate ceasefire and peace. They also hope to return to the ‘trade negotiation table’ with the United States. We believe it is inappropriate to do so (trade negotiations) before the war stops. They agreed to meet immediately, quickly reach a ceasefire, and ultimately achieve peace!” Trump said. “I am honored to deal with these two countries. They have a long and rich history and culture. I hope they can get along well in the coming years. When everything is settled and peace is on the horizon, I look forward to reaching trade agreements with both parties!”
Cambodia’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Chhea Keo, stated that Cambodia is requesting an “unconditional” ceasefire and also hopes for a “peaceful resolution of the dispute.”
Thailand’s Foreign Minister, Maris Sangiampongsa, stated on Saturday that Cambodia needs to show a “sincere attitude to end the conflict” before ceasefire negotiations can continue.
The ongoing border conflict between the two countries has resulted in at least 32 civilian and military deaths, with nearly 200,000 people displaced. The root of this conflict lies in the long-standing border disputes between the two countries. Sovereignty disputes are concentrated in a series of undemarcated areas, especially religious sites like Preah Vihear, also known in Chinese as Longduan Temple or Longduan Ancient Temple, and Ta Moan Thom Temple.
Thailand’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Cherdchai Chaivaivid, stated during a UN Security Council meeting on Friday that Cambodia has twice planted landmines within Thai territory since mid-July, causing injuries to soldiers, followed by an attack on Thursday morning.
The Cambodian Ministry of Defense issued a statement accusing Thailand of launching “deliberate, unlawful, and unauthorized military attacks” without provocation and is amassing more troops and armaments at the border.
The day before the conversation with Trump, Thailand’s Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai warned on Friday that this conflict could “develop into a war.” He mentioned heavy weapons being involved in the current fighting, spreading across 12 locations along the border.
Thailand also accused Cambodia of firing rockets into civilian areas. Thailand evacuated all villages within reach of Cambodia’s rocket range.
Cambodia, on the other hand, accused Thailand of using cluster munitions. Thailand has yet to respond to these allegations.