South Ayrshire: Donald Trump announced on Saturday that he had communicated with the leaders of Cambodia and Thailand, urging them to agree to an immediate ceasefire following recent border clashes. At the outset of a private visit to his Scottish golf courses, the US president took to Truth Social to declare that both nations “have agreed to immediately meet and quickly work out a Ceasefire and, ultimately, PEACE!”
According to BBC, both countries have expressed gratitude for Trump’s intervention, with Cambodia accepting his request for a ceasefire. However, Thailand emphasized the necessity of dialogue between the two nations. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that Cambodia has agreed to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, acknowledging that Trump’s mediation “will truly help protect the lives of many soldiers and civilians.”
Conversely, Thailand expressed a willingness to consider a ceasefire but maintained its stance that dialogue with Cambodia must precede any such agreement. Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai conveyed appreciation for Trump’s concern and noted that Thailand agrees in principle to a ceasefire, but seeks genuine intention from Cambodia. The ongoing conflict has resulted in the deaths of at least 33 soldiers and civilians and has displaced thousands of nationals from both countries since the fighting erupted on July 24.
In addition to the ceasefire discussions, Trump highlighted his intention to resume trade talks with Cambodia and Thailand, emphasizing that it was inappropriate to hold discussions until the “fighting STOPS.” His involvement comes just a week before new US tariffs on Cambodia and Thailand are set to be enforced. From August 1, US businesses importing goods from these countries will face a 36% tax unless an agreement is reached beforehand.
Trump’s involvement in the situation is somewhat unexpected, especially considering that Thailand’s foreign minister, Maris Sangiampongsa, had previously stated that there was no need for mediation from a third country. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had earlier offered to facilitate talks between the two nations. Despite this, Cambodia had already called for an “immediate” ceasefire and a peaceful resolution to the conflict earlier on Saturday.
The ongoing dispute has historical roots, dating back over a century to when the borders of Cambodia and Thailand were established following the French occupation of Cambodia. Each country has accused the other of initiating the latest clash, with Thailand alleging that Cambodia’s military used drones for surveillance near the border, and Cambodia claiming that Thai soldiers violated an agreement by advancing on a Khmer-Hindu temple.