Trump Urges Thailand to Recommit to Cambodia Truce with Trade Penalties
Washington has exerted influence on the Thai administration to reaffirm its dedication to a ceasefire agreement with the Cambodian side, warning that trade negotiations could be suspended as efforts are made to stop a Trump-mediated peace agreement from falling apart.
Border Tensions Escalate
Earlier this week, Thai officials announced it was suspending the ceasefire deal, alleging Cambodia of planting new explosives along the shared border, among them an incident that reportedly injured a Thai soldier on patrol, who suffered a foot amputation in the blast.
Since then, a fatality occurred and multiple individuals injured by exchanges of fire along the Thai-Cambodia frontier, raising concerns of a fresh wave of tit-for-tat fighting.
American Economic Leverage
On Saturday, a representative from Thailand's foreign office told journalists that a letter from the U.S. trade office declaring the pause in trade negotiations was obtained on Friday night.
The spokesperson referenced the letter as stating that trade negotiations – which are focusing on a US tariff of 19% – could resume once the Thai government renewed its pledge to carrying out the mutual truce agreement.
“Trade talks are ongoing and distinct from frontier matters,” stated another government spokesperson.
President’s Economic Warning
Addressing reporters on Air Force One as he traveled to the Sunshine State on the end of the week, Trump implied that he had used the “threat of tariffs” in calls with the south-east Asian leaders.
He stated, “I stopped a war just today through the use of tariffs, the threat of tariffs,” adding, “they’re doing great. I think they’re gonna be fine.”
Ceasefire Agreement Background
Trump oversaw the signing of a peace deal, held in Malaysia this last autumn, and has touted it as one of several deals around the world he claims should earn him the prestigious peace award.
The worst fighting in a decade between military forces of both nations erupted in mid-summer, with gunfire, artillery and airstrikes causing numerous fatalities and 300,000 displaced.
Longstanding Border Dispute
The two neighboring countries have a longstanding border dispute that dates back to conflicts regarding colonial-era maps drawn up by the French. Ancient temples along the frontier are claimed by both sides.
International news agency contributed to this report.