Rubio Expresses Concern Over Renewed Cambodia-Thailand Conflict
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a statement Tuesday expressing concern regarding the renewed conflict between Cambodia and Thailand.
Rubio’s statement called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, emphasizing Washington’s worry over the ongoing clashes and casualties along the Cambodia-Thailand border.
“Washington is concerned about the continued clashes and casualties along the Cambodia-Thailand border. We strongly urge an immediate cessation of hostilities, protection of civilians, and a return by both sides to de-escalation measures outlined in the Kuala Lumpur peace agreements of October 26,” Rubio stated.
Previously, the Cambodian Ministry of National Defense reported that the number of Cambodian casualties in the border clashes with Thailand had reached seven, with over 20 others severely injured. Local Cambodian authorities claimed that Thai army gunfire into civilian areas from December 8-9 resulted in the deaths of seven Cambodian citizens and injuries to 20 others.
Thai Defense Ministry spokesman Surasan Kongsiri stated in a press conference that the number of Thai soldiers wounded in the clashes with the Cambodian army had increased from eight to 29.
On Monday morning, the Thai army reported launching an air attack on Cambodian army positions along the border. Both sides have accused each other of violating the ceasefire and initiating the conflict.
The renewed clashes between Thailand and Cambodia come after President Donald Trump previously claimed to have ended eight wars, including the conflict between the two countries. The renewed fighting underscores the hollowness of Trump’s claims about establishing peace in the world through the use of power.
