Cambodia will nominate President Donald Trump for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of his role in brokering peace between Cambodia and Thailand. Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol confirmed the nomination at a press conference, praising Trump’s intervention during a border conflict that killed dozens and displaced over 260,000 civilians.
The Thai-Cambodian conflict escalated after Cambodian officials accused Thai soldiers of killing one of their troops in a cross-border skirmish. The violence led to a Thai military response that included the use of cluster munitions. Thailand justified their use by noting the country has not ratified the Convention on Cluster Munitions.
Disputes over historical colonial-era borders fueled the hostility. Cambodia defends the boundary set during French colonial rule, while Thailand asserts its territory stretches deeper into Cambodia. The military exchange rapidly intensified before Malaysia, as head of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), facilitated initial ceasefire talks.
President Trump’s involvement proved decisive. He directly warned both governments that the U.S. would halt bilateral trade deals if either country continued military action. Trump’s pressure led both leaders to the negotiating table and helped secure a ceasefire agreement.
Chanthol praised Trump’s “personal attention” and consistent monitoring of the ceasefire. He credited Trump with creating conditions favorable to peace and economic stability. Trump’s decision to reduce tariffs on Cambodian goods from an initial 49 percent to 19 percent also contributed to the country’s development, according to Cambodian officials.
Trump confirmed his involvement in public statements, emphasizing the need to prevent further bloodshed. He warned both sides that American trade agreements would not proceed during active warfare. Trump cited the centuries-long history of conflict between Cambodia and Thailand and said stopping the war early was critical to avoiding mass casualties and long-term regional instability.
This will be Trump’s third Nobel Peace Prize nomination in 2025. Israel previously nominated him for his continued support during the war with Hamas. Pakistan also submitted a nomination for his role in averting war with India, citing his leadership during a period of heightened tensions and civilian casualties.
