The leaders of Thailand and Cambodia will meet in Malaysia today for talks aimed at resolving a deadly border dispute. Thai acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai will lead Bangkok’s delegation in the mediation effort. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet is also expected to attend the talks. The death toll in Thailand-Cambodia border clashes has risen to 32, and more than 130 people have been injured.
Cambodians are fleeing the border with Thailand as clashes continue for the fourth day. Thailand had declared martial law in border areas amid fighting with Cambodia. Tensions escalated after both nations exchanged fire along the disputed stretch of their shared border, prompting international concern.
Speaking to reporters in Scotland last night, US President Donald Trump said he warned both countries that future trade agreements with Washington would be suspended if hostilities continue. He added he believed the talks in Malaysia marked a step toward de-escalation. Cambodia and Thailand have traded accusations of artillery attacks in the hours since Trump said both countries have agreed to thrash out a ceasefire.