Washington: US President Donald Trump announced that Cambodia and Thailand have agreed to promptly initiate ceasefire talks following three days of deadly armed conflict between the two nations. Trump, who is currently in Scotland, shared this development on Truth Social after having phone conversations with the leaders of both countries.
According to Anadolu Agency, the US president communicated with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and his Thai counterpart to facilitate a truce. Trump, who returned to the White House six months ago, emphasized the connection between his diplomatic efforts and ongoing US trade discussions with both nations. He stated that the United States is hesitant to progress with trade agreements until the fighting ceases.
In a previous Truth Social post, Trump expressed his reluctance to finalize trade agreements with either country while hostilities continue, drawing parallels to past conflicts in South Asia. He noted that many lives are at stake, comparing the situation to the historical conflict between Pakistan and India, which was successfully resolved.
During another conversation, Trump also spoke with the acting prime minister of Thailand, expressing optimism about the potential for peace. He indicated that both nations are eager for an immediate ceasefire and peace, and he plans to convey this message to Cambodia's Prime Minister.
In a related development, Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced on Friday that both sides had agreed to a ceasefire, with Cambodia supporting the proposal and Thailand agreeing in principle.