U.S. President Donald Trump has taken on a peacekeeping role as violence between Thailand and Cambodia continues to grow. After three days of deadly border clashes, he announced that both nations have agreed to meet for immediate ceasefire talks.
Over 30 Dead and Thousands Displaced
The conflict has already claimed more than 30 lives. Over 130,000 people have fled their homes to escape the violence. Fighting has become the worst in over a decade.
Trump Warns Trade Deals Are at Risk
Speaking from Scotland, Trump said he had spoken separately to Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. He warned them that continued fighting could harm potential U.S. trade agreements. “Both parties are looking for an immediate ceasefire and peace,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
“They have agreed to immediately meet and quickly work out a ceasefire and, ultimately, PEACE!”
So far, neither the White House nor the embassies of Thailand or Cambodia have confirmed the upcoming meeting.
Thailand Seeks Peace But Wants Sincerity
Thailand confirmed its willingness to support a ceasefire. However, it also urged Cambodia to engage with sincerity. In a Facebook post, Phumtham said, “We are willing to engage in bilateral dialogue aimed at long-term peace.”
He also asked Trump to share Thailand’s intent with the Cambodian leadership.
Clashes Spread Beyond Original Area
Initially, the skirmishes began in one section of the border. But by Saturday, the conflict spread to new regions — Trat Province in Thailand and Pursat Province in Cambodia over 100 kilometers from the original fighting zone.
The violence started after a Cambodian soldier was killed in late May. That incident triggered a military build-up along the 817-kilometer disputed border.
Historic Temple at Center of Dispute
The two countries have long argued over Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In 1962, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) awarded the temple to Cambodia.
However, Thailand never fully accepted the decision. This temple remains a flashpoint of national pride and political tension.
Rising Death Toll on Both Sides
According to official reports:
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Thailand confirmed 20 deaths (including 7 soldiers and 13 civilians).
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Cambodia reported 13 deaths (5 soldiers and 8 civilians).
Cambodia accused Thailand of “military aggression” and urged global powers to condemn the Thai attacks. Thailand countered, saying Cambodia had used landmines and launched cross-border raids.
India Issues Travel Warning
India has responded by issuing a travel advisory. The Indian Embassy in Cambodia urged its citizens to avoid areas near the border.
UN and ICJ Responses
Thailand raised the issue at the UN Security Council on Friday, accusing Cambodia of aggression. Meanwhile, Cambodia approached the ICJ again, but Thailand rejected the court’s jurisdiction this time.
The region remains tense, but Trump claims that both leaders are ready to return to the negotiating table. If the talks take place soon, they could prevent more deaths and displacement in the coming days.
