On Saturday, former President Donald Trump announced that he had engaged in discussions with the leaders of Cambodia and Thailand to facilitate an immediate ceasefire following recent border clashes. This announcement came as Trump was on a private visit to his golf courses in Scotland. He shared the news on Truth Social, stating that both nations have agreed to convene and swiftly work towards a ceasefire and ultimately establish peace.
In a statement confirming Trump's remarks, Thailand's acting Prime Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, acknowledged that the Thai government is in principle supportive of the ceasefire. However, he emphasized the necessity of assessing the sincerity of the Cambodian side regarding this agreement. The urgency of the situation is underscored by the tragic loss of at least 33 soldiers and civilians, alongside the displacement of thousands of Thai and Cambodian nationals since the fighting erupted on July 24.
Trump expressed his eagerness to resume trade talks with both Cambodia and Thailand, but he clarified that discussions should not proceed until the violence ceases. His involvement comes just a week before new US tariffs on Cambodian and Thai goods are scheduled to take effect. Starting August 1, US businesses importing products from these countries will face a hefty 36% tax unless an agreement is reached beforehand.
The manner in which Trump became involved in this diplomatic situation raises questions, especially given that just a day prior, Thailand's Foreign Minister, Maris Sangiampongsa, remarked that mediation from a third country was unnecessary at this point. This statement contrasts with the earlier offer from Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who had proposed to facilitate talks between Thailand and Cambodia.
Prior to Trump's announcement, Cambodia had already called for an immediate ceasefire with Thailand. After playing golf at his luxury resort, Trump Turnberry in South Ayrshire, he revealed that he had spoken with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Prime Minister Wechayachai. Trump expressed optimism, stating, "When all is done, and peace is at hand, I look forward to concluding our Trading Agreements with both!"
The tensions between Thailand and Cambodia are rooted in a complex history, with both nations accusing each other of initiating the recent clashes. Thailand contends that the conflict began when Cambodia's military utilized drones for surveillance of Thai troops near the border, while Cambodia claims that Thai soldiers breached a previous agreement by advancing towards a Khmer-Hindu temple. This ongoing dispute can be traced back over a century, originating from the delineation of borders following the French occupation of Cambodia.
