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Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to hold ceasefire talks in Malaysia, aiming to resolve a deadly border conflict that has escalated over the past four days.
Some shit you should know before you read: Four days ago, fighting broke out between Thailand and Cambodia along their disputed border, triggering one of the deadliest flare-ups in years. The conflict centers on long-contested territory near ancient temples, with both sides accusing the other of initiating attacks. Thailand claims the violence began when Cambodian forces deployed surveillance drones and fired into Thai territory, while Cambodia alleges that Thai troops violated prior agreements by advancing near the Preah Vihear temple complex. Each nation has traded blame for attacks on civilian areas. So far, at least 35 people have been killed—22 in Thailand and 13 in Cambodia—and over 200,000 civilians have been displaced as heavy shelling and airstrikes continue.
What’s going on now: In a notable development, Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to hold ceasefire talks in Kuala Lumpur on Monday, marking the first formal step toward de-escalation after four days of deadly border clashes. The meeting, set to take place at 3 p.m. Malaysian time, is being facilitated by the United States and will include participation from China. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet confirmed his attendance and reiterated his country’s agreement to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, while Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said his government supports a ceasefire in principle but wants to see “sincere intention” from the Cambodian side before halting military operations.
The talks were prompted in large part by President Trump’s direct intervention. Over the weekend, Trump personally called both leaders and warned that ongoing violence would result in the suspension of trade negotiations with the United States. In a series of Truth Social posts, he stated that he told both prime ministers the US would not proceed with trade deals unless the conflict ends immediately, emphasizing that peace is a precondition for prosperity.
Trump’s pressure comes just days before a planned 36% US tariff on Cambodian and Thai exports is set to take effect on August 1. Both governments are eager to avoid the economic fallout, giving them added incentive to negotiate. Despite this diplomatic progress, tensions remain high. Thailand has indicated that military operations will continue until it sees concrete actions from Cambodia.
