World Desk 

Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to begin ceasefire talks amid ongoing border clashes, following mediation by U.S. President Donald Trump. The conflict, now in its fourth day, has left at least 33 people dead and forced more than 168,000 to flee.

Trump said via Truth Social on Saturday that he had spoken with both countries' leaders and warned of halting trade deals if hostilities did not stop. Later, he announced that both sides had agreed to meet and negotiate a truce.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet confirmed that his government had accepted an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire” and said Trump had informed him that Thailand had also agreed. Cambodia’s foreign minister has been tasked with coordinating with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and engaging with Thai officials on the ceasefire.

Thailand responded cautiously. Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai welcomed Trump's involvement and agreed in principle but emphasized that Cambodia must show genuine intent. He called for urgent bilateral dialogue to resolve the issue.

Cambodia urges ceasefire as border clashes with Thailand escalate

Despite the diplomatic push, fighting persisted Sunday, with both sides trading blame over renewed shelling and troop movements along the contested border. Thailand accused Cambodia of attacking civilian areas, while Cambodia alleged Thai troops launched ground incursions.

Thailand reported 20 deaths, mostly civilians, while Cambodia confirmed 13 fatalities. Thousands of families remain displaced, with border villages largely emptied and public services disrupted.

The UN Security Council has urged ASEAN to mediate, while Human Rights Watch condemned the reported use of cluster bombs, calling for both governments to protect civilians.

Source: Agency