After three days of intense border clashes that left over 30 people dead and displaced more than 130,000, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to immediate ceasefire talks.
The Spark
Clashes erupted along the Thailand-Cambodia border with both sides claiming self-defense. New flashpoints kept emerging as each government called on the other to halt hostilities and sit down for negotiations.
Trumpâs Mediation from Scotland
In a series of social media posts during his visit to Scotland, Trump said he directly contacted Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailandâs acting prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai, warning that future trade deals could be at stake if the fighting continued.
"Both parties are looking for an immediate Ceasefire and Peace," he wrote, adding that leaders "have agreed to immediately meet and quickly work out a Ceasefire and, ultimately, PEACE!"
ASEAN and UN Join the Push
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, as chair of ASEAN, is also pushing a ceasefire proposal backed by Cambodia and accepted in principle by Thailand. Meanwhile, the UN Security Council convened an emergency meeting where both sides voiced willingness to resolve the conflict peacefully.
On the Ground Impact
Local communities are facing urgent needs for shelter, food and medical aid as tens of thousands cross temporary checkpoints or seek safety further inland. Humanitarian teams are monitoring the situation to provide support.
Whatâs Next?
As global citizens, entrepreneurs, and activists follow these developments, the success of these talks could shape future approaches to regional conflicts and peacebuilding across Southeast Asia.
Reference(s):
Trump says Thailand, Cambodia agree to hold immediate ceasefire talks
cgtn.com
