President Donald Trump announced that Cambodia and Thailand have reached a ceasefire after tensions between the countries increased in May.
Last week, clashes broke out between the countries, leading to several deaths and thousands of people fleeing their homes. At the time, the State Department said, “The United States is gravely concerned by reports of the escalating fighting along the Thailand-Cambodia border. We are particularly alarmed by reports of harm to innocent civilians. We express our deepest condolences on the loss of life. We strongly urge the immediate cessation of attacks, protection of civilians, and peaceful settlement of disputes.”
“Just spoke to the Acting Prime Minister of Thailand and Prime Minister of Cambodia. I am pleased to announce that, after the involvement of President Donald J. Trump, both Countries have reached a CEASEFIRE and PEACE,” Trump declared on social media. “Congratulations to all! By ending this War, we have saved thousands of lives. I have instructed my Trade Team to restart negotiations on Trade. I have now ended many Wars in just six months — I am proud to be the President of PEACE!”
Speaking to reporters in Scotland, Trump said, “I’ve stopped six wars …I’m averaging about a war a month.”
“We solved it through trade,” he added. “I said, ‘I don’t want to trade with anybody that’s killing each other.'”
Last week, Trump threatened to end trade negotiations with the countries unless they reached a peace agreement.
“I just had a very good call with the Prime Minister of Cambodia, and informed him of my discussions with Thailand, and its Acting Prime Minister. Both Parties are looking for an immediate Ceasefire and Peace,” Trump wrote on July 26. “They are also looking to get back to the ‘Trading Table’ with the United States, which we think is inappropriate to do until such time as the fighting STOPS. They have agreed to immediately meet and quickly work out a Ceasefire and, ultimately, PEACE! It was an Honor to deal with both Countries. They have a long and storied History and Culture. They will hopefully get along for many years to come. When all is done, and Peace is at hand, I look forward to concluding our Trading Agreements with both!”
