Trump Says Thailand ‘Started War With Cambodia Again’ Amid Renewed Border Clashes

President Donald Trump has publicly stated that Thailand “started war with Cambodia again,” as fresh clashes erupted along the long-disputed border between the two Southeast Asian neighbours. The remarks came amid confusion over ceasefire efforts and continued fighting that has forced large numbers of civilians to flee frontline areas.

According to Trump, hostilities resumed despite previous peace agreements, with Bangkok once again engaging Phnom Penh after a period of relative calm. The U.S. president framed the renewed conflict as a setback in diplomatic efforts and underscored his belief that international mediation is essential to prevent a wider war.

The clashes mark a fresh chapter in the 2025 Cambodia–Thailand border conflict, rooted in decades-old territorial disputes over undefined frontier zones and disputes dating back to colonial-era border delineations. A major ceasefire effort earlier in the year was formalized in October in Kuala Lumpur — with the support of ASEAN and the United States — only for violence to reignite in December.

Confusion Over Ceasefire and Military Action

Trump’s comments came as conflicting messages emerged from the parties involved. The U.S. leader said he believed both Thailand and Cambodia had agreed to cease hostilities following high-level calls, but Thai officials quickly pushed back, stating there was no formal ceasefire in place and affirming continued military operations.

Cambodian authorities have also accused Thai forces of carrying out airstrikes and bombing runs inside Cambodian territory, including the use of F-16 fighter jets and other heavy weaponry. These operations have reportedly hit both military targets and civilian areas, intensifying concerns about humanitarian impacts.

Humanitarian and Diplomatic Fallout

The renewed fighting has had significant humanitarian consequences, with hundreds of thousands of civilians displaced and thousands seeking safety away from conflict zones. The clashes are among the most serious in the region this year, prompting international calls for restraint.

Regional players and organisations such as ASEAN, led by Malaysia, have sought to bring both sides back to the negotiating table. Diplomatic efforts include special meetings of foreign ministers and proposed talks aimed at stabilising the situation and restoring confidence in previously negotiated peace frameworks.

Looking Ahead