President Donald Trump contacted leaders in Thailand and Cambodia after renewed violence threatened to rupture the fragile peace accord signed last month. The White House confirmed the diplomatic outreach on Friday.
The ceasefire, co-signed by Trump on October 26, was one of several global agreements he spotlighted during his Asia trip. But tensions resurfaced almost immediately when Thailand paused its participation following a landmine blast that wounded its troops.
The situation worsened when both countries exchanged accusations of opening fire. Cambodia reported a civilian fatality, raising concerns among international observers who fear a return to summer-level violence.
Malaysia — which has acted as a long-standing mediator — was also involved in Trump’s communications. The original peace agreement was signed in Kuala Lumpur, reinforcing Malaysia’s central role in negotiations.
While the border dispute has been simmering for more than a century, recent clashes have demonstrated just how quickly tensions can escalate. A deadly confrontation earlier this year killed 43 people and displaced roughly 300,000 civilians, highlighting the urgent need for continued diplomacy.