Thai and Cambodian Leaders to Discuss Ceasefire Amid Ongoing Border Clashes
BANGKOK — Thai and Cambodian officials are coming together for discussions in Malaysia aimed at resolving recent border tensions that have resulted in significant casualties and widespread displacement. The meeting, scheduled for Monday, follows a call from U.S. President Donald Trump for both nations to settle their differences and end hostilities that have claimed at least 34 lives and forced over 168,000 people to flee their homes.
Acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has accepted an invitation from Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to engage in peace talks, with his Cambodian counterpart, Hun Manet, also expected to attend, although confirmation from Cambodia has yet to be received. Anwar is acting as the chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which rotates its leadership annually among its ten members.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump mentioned that he had spoken with both leaders and warned that trade agreements with either country would be stalled if the fighting did not stop. Afterwards, both Thailand and Cambodia reportedly agreed to negotiate a ceasefire.
Hun Manet confirmed Cambodia’s commitment to an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire.” He noted that Trump indicated Thailand is also onboard with halting military operations after discussions with Phumtham. To facilitate this, Hun Manet has tasked his Foreign Minister with coordinating next steps with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and engaging directly with Thailand’s foreign minister.
While Thailand expressed cautious optimism about the ceasefire, Phumtham made it clear that any agreement relies on “sincere intention” from Cambodia. Thailand called for immediate talks to outline practical steps toward peace.
The clashes began after a land mine explosion along the border injured several Thai soldiers, leading to both sides accusing each other of instigating the violence. As tensions rose, both countries temporarily withdrew their ambassadors and closed border crossings. Despite attempts at diplomacy, shelling continued over the weekend.
Reports indicate that Cambodian forces have been firing artillery into Thai territory, including civilian areas, while Thailand has retaliated. The ongoing conflict has raised concerns, particularly from Thailand’s Foreign Ministry, which emphasized that any ceasefire depends on Cambodia’s willingness to negotiate in good faith.
Casualties have been rising, with Thailand reporting another soldier’s death, bringing its total to 21, mostly among civilians, while Cambodia cites 13 fatalities. The violence has left many border communities nearly deserted as residents seek safety.
Evacuees from the conflict are eager for an end to the hostilities. Individuals like Pichayut Surasit, who left his job in Bangkok to return home, express deep concern for their families. Others, such as local vendors in makeshift shelters, are hopeful for successful negotiations to restore peace in their lives.
The United Nations Security Council has urged ASEAN to mediate between Thailand and Cambodia to bring an end to the fighting. The border dispute, which has simmered for decades, has now intensified, creating a significant diplomatic challenge for the region.
As both nations prepare for negotiations, the eyes of the international community remain on Southeast Asia, hoping for a swift resolution to restore stability and safety for the affected populations.
