US President Donald Trump on Saturday called for an immediate ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand, stating he had spoken to leaders of both countries in an effort to de-escalate the violent border conflict now in its third day.
In posts on his Truth Social platform, Trump revealed, “Just spoke to the Prime Minister of Cambodia relative to stopping the war with Thailand. I have just spoken to the Acting Prime Minister of Thailand, and it was a very good conversation.”
He added that both sides had expressed their willingness for peace. “Thailand, like Cambodia, wants to have an immediate ceasefire, and peace. I am now going to relay that message back to the Prime Minister of Cambodia. After speaking to both parties, ceasefire, peace, and prosperity seems to be a natural. We will soon see!”
Clashes began over disputed ancient temple sites and have since spread to coastal regions near the Gulf of Thailand, around 250 kilometres southwest of the main border zones. The fighting, which has left at least 33 people dead, has affected rural communities that rely on rubber and rice farming.
Drawing a broader comparison, Trump said, “I am trying to simplify a complex situation. Many people are being killed in this war, but it very much reminds me of the conflict between Pakistan and India, which was brought to a successful halt.”
He also warned that the US would hold off on trade agreements with both Cambodia and Thailand until the hostilities ended.
The international community continues to watch the situation closely as diplomatic efforts intensify.
