US Backs Cambodia-Thailand Truce with Millions in Aid

A senior U.S. envoy is urging Cambodia and Thailand to uphold a fragile ceasefire along their shared border, committing millions of dollars in American funding to support the truce. The financial aid is aimed at stabilizing the border, clearing landmines, and tackling transnational crime.

Michael DeSombre, the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, announced the funding package on Friday. The U.S. has pledged:

• $15 million for border stabilization efforts.

• $10 million for demining and clearing unexploded ordnance.

• $20 million to help both nations combat scam operations and drug trafficking.

This diplomatic push comes as a recent ceasefire, agreed upon on December 27, is being tested by both sides. While the agreement has largely held, it follows the collapse of a previous truce from late July.

Tensions Persist Despite Diplomatic Efforts

Despite a halt in large-scale fighting, on-the-ground conditions remain tense. Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn stated that Thai forces have installed barriers and placed shipping containers in contested areas, preventing villagers from returning to their homes.

In his first interview with international media since the clashes began, Sokhonn confirmed that over 200,000 people are still internally displaced.

"I consider it a matter of international concern because it's related to sovereignty, to territorial integrity, and even beyond that to regional peace," he said. Sokhonn emphasized Cambodia's commitment to the ceasefire and called on Thailand to demonstrate the same resolve in respecting and implementing the agreement.

A Contest for Regional Influence

The border dispute has attracted the attention of global powers, underscoring the strategic importance of a region where China’s influence is growing.

Beijing has positioned itself as a neutral mediator, hosting a trilateral meeting last week with Cambodia and Thailand and urging both sides to pursue a peaceful, long-term solution.

Meanwhile, Washington has increased its engagement. The U.S. previously supported a short-lived peace accord brokered with help from President Donald Trump. Now, Trump has warned that the U.S. could impose tariffs on both countries if fighting breaks out again, signaling Washington's deep concern that renewed conflict could disrupt trade and destabilize the region.