US suspends trade talks with Thailand over Cambodia border dispute

The United States has suspended negotiations on a trade agreement with Thailand due to the ongoing situation on the Cambodian border, EFE reports, citing the Foreign Ministry.

Washington took this step after Bangkok earlier this week halted compliance with the terms of a peace agreement signed in October under the mediation of U.S. President Donald Trump, which had ended the border confrontation.

The Thai Foreign Ministry stated that it had received a message from the U.S. administration indicating that trade talks would be suspended until Thailand returns to full compliance with the peace agreement. The document expressed hope that “Thailand and Cambodia will be able to resolve the situation as soon as possible.”

Bangkok expressed regret over Washington’s decision, emphasising that security issues should not be conflated with trade matters, which are of mutual interest.

EFE recalls that Thailand ceased adhering to the peace agreement on Monday after a Thai soldier was killed by a landmine. Bangkok claimed the mine had been recently placed along the border, while Phnom Penh said it was a remnant from previous confrontations. Three days ago, a border shootout between Thailand and Cambodia resulted in one death and three injuries on the Cambodian side, with both parties exchanging mutual accusations.

By Khagan Isayev