Trump Urges Thailand to Recommit to Cambodian Truce with ‘Threat of Tariffs’
Washington has exerted influence on Thailand to recommit to a ceasefire agreement with Cambodia, warning that trade talks could be paused as attempts are made to prevent a Trump-mediated ceasefire arrangement from falling apart.
Border Tensions Escalate
Earlier this week, Thai officials declared it was suspending the ceasefire deal, alleging Cambodia of planting new explosives along the mutual frontier, including one that reportedly injured a Thai military personnel on patrol, who lost a foot in the explosion.
Since then, a fatality occurred and multiple individuals injured by gunfire along the Thai-Cambodia frontier, sparking fears of a new round of tit-for-tat fighting.
US Trade Pressure
Over the weekend, a representative from Thailand's foreign office informed reporters that a letter from the Office of the US Trade Representative declaring the pause in trade negotiations was obtained on Friday night.
The spokesperson referenced the letter as saying that discussions on trade – which are focusing on a 19 percent American duty – could restart once Thailand renewed its pledge to implementing the mutual truce agreement.
“Trade talks are ongoing and distinct from frontier matters,” stated a different official representative.
Trump’s Tariff Threat
Addressing reporters aboard the presidential plane as he flew to Florida on the end of the week, Trump implied that he had employed tariff warnings in calls with the south-east Asian leaders.
He stated, “Today, I prevented a conflict using tariffs, the menace of duties,” adding, “they’re doing great. I think they’re gonna be fine.”
Ceasefire Agreement Background
Trump oversaw the signing of a ceasefire agreement, conducted in Malaysian territory this October, and has promoted it as one of several deals around the globe he claims should earn him the prestigious peace award.
The most severe clashes in a decade between Thai and Cambodian troops broke out in July, with gunfire, artillery and airstrikes causing numerous fatalities and hundreds of thousands forced to flee.
Longstanding Border Dispute
The two neighboring countries have a historic territorial disagreement that dates back to conflicts regarding maps from the colonial period drawn up by the French. Ancient temples along the border are claimed by both sides.
International news agency provided input for this coverage.