Former US President Trump’s mediation efforts hit obstacles as landmine allegations threaten to reignite deadly border conflict between the Southeast Asian neighbors.
WASHINGTON – A truce between Thailand and Cambodia brokered by former US President Donald Trump appears increasingly fragile, with Thailand suspending the agreement and demanding Cambodia apologize for alleged new landmine deployments along their contested border.
The diplomatic setback comes just months after Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim helped negotiate a ceasefire following July’s intense fighting that killed dozens and displaced approximately 300,000 people.
While Trump expressed optimism after recent calls with both nations’ leaders, telling reporters Friday that “they’re going to be fine,” the reality on the ground appears more precarious. Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has taken a firm stance, declaring Bangkok will not honor the ceasefire until Cambodia admits violation and offers apologies for incidents that injured Thai soldiers.
The conflicting positions emerged clearly in parallel social media posts by both leaders Saturday. Anutin asserted Thailand’s right to take “any action necessary” to protect its sovereignty, while Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet maintained his government’s commitment to the agreement and called for continued dialogue.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar, who has served as primary mediator in the dispute, indicated both sides remained open to diplomatic solutions despite the current impasse. The situation highlights the persistent volatility along the contested border region, where historical tensions have repeatedly escalated into armed confrontation.
