Trump Pressures Thailand to Recommit to Cambodia Ceasefire with Trade Penalties
Washington has exerted influence on the Thai administration to recommit to a ceasefire agreement with the Cambodian side, stating that trade talks could be suspended as attempts are made to prevent a Trump-mediated ceasefire arrangement from falling apart.
Rising Border Hostilities
In recent days, Thai officials announced it was putting on hold the ceasefire deal, alleging Cambodia of laying fresh landmines along the shared border, including one that reportedly injured a Thai soldier on duty, who lost a foot in the blast.
Following this, a fatality occurred and several others wounded by gunfire along the Thai-Cambodia frontier, raising concerns of a new round of tit-for-tat fighting.
American Economic Leverage
Over the weekend, a representative from Thailand's foreign office told journalists that a official communication from the U.S. trade office declaring the pause in trade negotiations was obtained on the previous evening.
He quoted the document as stating that trade negotiations – which are addressing a US tariff of 19% – could resume once Thailand reaffirmed its commitment to implementing the mutual truce agreement.
“Trade talks are ongoing and distinct from frontier matters,” stated another government spokesperson.
Trump’s Tariff Threat
Addressing reporters aboard the presidential plane as he traveled to the Sunshine State on Friday, Trump suggested that he had used the “threat of tariffs” in discussions 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 peace deal, conducted in Malaysian territory this October, and has touted it as one of several deals around the globe he claims should win him the Nobel Peace prize.
The worst fighting in a decade between Thai and Cambodian troops erupted in July, with exchanges of fire, shelling and aerial attacks leaving dozens of people killed and 300,000 displaced.
Longstanding Border Dispute
Thailand and Cambodia have a longstanding border dispute that dates back to conflicts regarding maps from the colonial period drawn up by the French. Ancient temples along the frontier are disputed by each nation.
International news agency contributed to this report.
