Fierce clashes persisted on Saturday morning along the Thailand-Cambodia border despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s involvement as a mediator, announcing a new ceasefire agreement reached by both nations. Thai officials disputed agreeing to a ceasefire, as Cambodian Defense Ministry reported Thai airstrikes on Saturday. Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow criticized Trump’s statements, stating they did not accurately represent the situation, particularly regarding a landmine explosion that injured Thai soldiers.
The recent escalation of violence stemmed from a confrontation on December 7, resulting in two wounded Thai soldiers and disrupting a ceasefire previously brokered by Trump in July. This previous ceasefire, enforced under pressure from Trump threatening trade privileges, was finalized in October at a regional meeting attended by Trump in Malaysia.
The ongoing conflict has led to over two dozen reported deaths on both sides of the border and displaced over half a million individuals. The Thai military confirmed 15 troop fatalities and estimated 165 Cambodian soldier deaths, while Cambodia reported at least 11 civilian deaths and over 70 injuries.
Following discussions with Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, Trump declared an agreement to reinstate the ceasefire. However, both Thai and Cambodian officials later refuted Trump’s claims of a ceasefire being reached, emphasizing the need for the other side to cease attacks first.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed readiness to cooperate for lasting peace between the two nations, acknowledging efforts by Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar. Anwar, in turn, urged both sides to implement a ceasefire promptly. Thailand and Cambodia have engaged in military actions, with Thailand targeting military sites and Cambodia launching BM-21 rockets causing disruption but limited casualties.
The conflict escalated further as Thai navy reportedly joined the fighting by shelling Cambodia’s Koh Kong province, with both sides blaming each other for initiating hostilities. Evacuations and casualties continue to rise amid the ongoing border tensions.