Although President Donald Trump had previously intervened to end the conflict between the two nations, Thailand remains obstinate in preserving its sovereignty over the borders with Cambodia. In fact, not only did the Thai military attack the coastal province of Trat, but its offensive expanded to other areas such as Surin’s Ta Khwai area and Pursat Province.
While no current briefings on the number of casualties from the latest events have been reported, 25 soldiers and civilians have been killed and over half a million people have been displaced. To justify its recent actions, Thailand has invoked the principle of self-defense according to international law. Thai military stated it has “successfully controlled and reclaimed the area, expelling all opposing forces,” and has even planted the Thai national flag.
Meanwhile, to secure civilian safety, Cambodia shut all border crossings, a decision that is to remain unchanged until further notice.
President Donald Trump stated earlier on Saturday that he had already secured a new agreement from the two parties to maintain peace. However, the Thai military does not seem to be at all inclined to end the offensive, and Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said they will “continue fighting”. Admittedly, neither has Cambodia commented on Trump’s latest statement. Therefore, the conflict will apparently persist until a new cease-fire agreement is reached.
by Ylenia Bobbo
