Thailand Accuses Cambodia of Ceasefire Violation Over Drone Incursion
Thailand’s army on Monday accused Cambodia of breaching a recently signed ceasefire agreement by reportedly flying over 250 drones across its border. The ceasefire, agreed upon after weeks of deadly clashes, aimed to halt violence that killed dozens and displaced more than a million people this month.
Ceasefire in Jeopardy
Thailand and Cambodia had pledged an immediate ceasefire on Saturday, vowing to end renewed border clashes. However, Bangkok’s latest allegation, coupled with its warning to reconsider the release of Cambodian soldiers held in Thailand, casts doubt over the durability of the truce.
Details of Drone Incursion
According to a Thai army statement, more than 250 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were detected crossing into Thai territory from Cambodia on Sunday night. The statement described the move as a provocation and a direct violation of measures designed to reduce tensions, contradicting the Joint Statement agreed during a bilateral border committee meeting on Saturday.
Background: Escalating Border Tensions
The recent clashes reignited violence along nearly every border province, undermining a previous truce for which former US President Donald Trump had claimed credit. Under the new pact, both countries agreed to:
- Cease fire immediately
- Freeze troop movements along the border
- Cooperate on demining operations
Despite two days of talks between the foreign ministers of Thailand and Cambodia, hosted by China to rebuild trust, the drone allegations highlight ongoing mistrust and the fragile nature of the truce