Former President Donald Trump recently revealed that he engaged in discussions with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, as part of his efforts to mediate ongoing tensions in the region. Trump expressed optimism about finalising trade agreements with both nations once peace is achieved.
In a message, Trump highlighted that both countries are seeking an immediate ceasefire and peace. He underscored that the prospect of returning to trade relations with the United States should be paused until hostilities have ceased. Following these discussions, he indicated that both parties have committed to meeting urgently to negotiate a ceasefire and work toward lasting peace.
Early Sunday morning, Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed gratitude to Trump, affirming Cambodia’s support for an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire” between the two nations’ armed forces. This call for peace was previously communicated to ASEAN chair and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
However, the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs took a more cautious stance, with Wechayachai emphasising the need for genuine goodwill from Cambodia. He further requested Trump to facilitate a bilateral dialogue promptly, aiming to establish measures for a ceasefire and a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The ongoing tensions stem from territorial disputes that date back to when colonial power France delineated the border over a century ago. The renewed violence sees Thailand, a longstanding ally of the United States with a sophisticated military background, facing off against Cambodia’s relatively younger armed forces, which maintain close ties to China.
Recent clashes have persisted into Saturday, as confirmed by officials from both sides, highlighting the urgent need for resolution and the role that international diplomacy may play in restoring stability.