Trump’s Intervention Paves Way for Ceasefire Between Thailand and Cambodia

Melbourne, 28 July— U.S. President Donald Trump has intervened amid the bloody clashes sparked by a border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia.

While on a visit to Scotland on Saturday, Trump posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, saying he had spoken with the leaders of both Thailand and Cambodia, and that both sides had agreed to an “immediate ceasefire and the establishment of peace in the near future.”

The British news outlet BBC confirmed this information in a report published on Sunday.

Trump further stated, “Both countries have agreed to meet soon and work toward a peaceful resolution. Once the war is over, we will also begin our trade negotiations.”

Thailand’s acting President Phumtham Wechayachai confirmed Trump’s remarks, stating, “Thailand has principally agreed to a ceasefire, but we are still monitoring how sincere Cambodia is in this regard.”

Since the outbreak of the conflict on July 24, at least 33 soldiers and civilians have lost their lives, and thousands have been displaced from their homes.

The report also mentions that both sides are blaming each other for initiating the violence.

Thailand claims that the Cambodian military began drone surveillance along the Thai border, which escalated tensions.

Cambodia, on the other hand, accuses Thailand of violating an old treaty by advancing toward a Khmer-Hindu temple.

The Thailand-Cambodia border dispute dates back over a century, originating during the period of French colonial rule, and centers around territorial demarcation.

Trump’s intervention comes at a time when, starting August 1, the United States is set to impose a 36% tariff on goods imported from both Cambodia and Thailand.

However, Trump stated that trade negotiations would not be appropriate until the fighting stops.

Earlier, Malaysian President Anwar Ibrahim had offered to mediate between Thailand and Cambodia.

But recently, Thailand’s Foreign Minister said, “There is no need for third-party mediation at this time.”