Thailand-Cambodia fighting continues after Trump says countries agree to ceasefire
Fighting between Thailand and Cambodia persists along their disputed border despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent announcement of a renewed ceasefire agreement. Thai airstrikes and artillery exchanges continued as of December 13, 2025, contradicting Trump’s claims of an immediate halt to hostilities.
Tensions reignited in early December 2025 after a fragile truce brokered by Trump in July, expanded in October with Malaysian involvement. The clashes stem from longstanding disputes over border areas, including ancient temples, leading to mutual accusations of provocations like shelling civilian zones.
Thailand launched F-16 airstrikes on Cambodian military targets near Chong An Ma Pass following the death of a Thai soldier, with reports of ongoing operations into December 12-13. Cambodia reported continued bombings hours after Trump’s ceasefire call, while Thailand vowed to press forward with planned actions.
At least 20 people have died in the latest flare-up, including soldiers and civilians, with around 500,000-600,000 displaced along the 800-km border. Both sides have evacuated border regions and accused each other of targeting populated areas.
Trump credited his talks with Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet for the December 12 renewal, alongside Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim’s role. Neither side has fully confirmed adherence, and skirmishes undermine the agreement.
