Trump Compels Thailand to Recommit to Cambodian Ceasefire with ‘Threat of Tariffs’
Washington has exerted influence on Thailand to recommit to a ceasefire agreement with Cambodia, indicating that trade negotiations could be paused as attempts are made to prevent a Donald Trump-brokered ceasefire arrangement from collapsing.
Border Tensions Escalate
In recent days, Thailand announced it was putting on hold the ceasefire deal, alleging Cambodian forces of planting new explosives along the shared border, including one that reportedly injured a Thai soldier on patrol, who lost a foot in the explosion.
Since then, one person has been killed and several others wounded by exchanges of fire along the Thai-Cambodia frontier, raising concerns of a fresh wave of tit-for-tat fighting.
US Trade Pressure
On Saturday, a representative from Thailand's foreign office informed reporters that a official communication from the U.S. trade office announcing the pause in trade negotiations was obtained on Friday night.
He quoted the letter as saying that discussions on trade – which are addressing a US tariff of 19% – could resume once the Thai government reaffirmed its commitment to implementing the mutual truce agreement.
“Tariff negotiations will continue and remain separate from border issues,” stated another government spokesperson.
Trump’s Tariff Threat
Speaking to the press on Air Force One as he flew to Florida on Friday, Trump implied that he had used the “threat of tariffs” in discussions with the south-east Asian leaders.
He stated, “Today, I prevented a conflict using tariffs, the menace of duties,” 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 globe he says should win him the Nobel Peace prize.
The worst fighting in a decade between military forces of both nations broke out in mid-summer, with gunfire, artillery and airstrikes leaving dozens of people killed and 300,000 displaced.
Longstanding Border Dispute
Thailand and Cambodia have a longstanding border dispute that originates from disagreements over colonial-era maps drawn up by the French. Historic shrines along the frontier are claimed by both sides.
Reuters provided input for this coverage.
