President Donald Trump has urged Thailand and Cambodia to restore calm after the two nations traded fresh gunfire along their contested border. The White House confirmed Friday that Trump contacted both governments to reinforce the October peace deal.
The ceasefire had been promoted by Trump as a significant diplomatic achievement. But Thailand pulled back from the agreement after alleging Cambodia planted landmines that injured its troops.
New skirmishes erupted shortly afterward, with both countries accusing each other of breaking the truce. Cambodia reported the death of a civilian, raising international alarm.
Malaysia — which facilitated and hosted the signing of the original agreement — also participated in the renewed push for peace. Kuala Lumpur’s ongoing involvement remains vital as tensions rise.
Although the conflict dates back more than a century, this year’s violence was especially destructive. A five-day showdown in the summer killed 43 people and displaced around 300,000 before the ceasefire briefly halted fighting.