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Picture courtesy of fm91bkk A truck loaded with straw overturned and caught fire on Mittraphap Road’s central reservation in the Sikhio district, injuring two people. The incident unfolded at 6am on March 10, at the notorious Ton Krathin curve near Lam Takhong Reservoir as the truck headed towards Nakhon Ratchasima. Emergency services from Khlong Phai Police Station responded swiftly to the scene, where they found the truck, bearing registration number บม 9191 Phichit, engulfed in flames. Khlong Phai Municipality firefighters, with support from Hook 31 Rescue Unit volunteers, quickly cordoned off the area to control the fire, which had also damaged concrete barriers and street lighting. It took over 30 minutes to fully extinguish the blaze, with crews taking extra precautions to prevent any re-ignition. The two injured, a man and a woman, were promptly taken to Sikhio Hospital for medical care. Investigations revealed that the truck was delivering straw to a livestock farm. The accident reportedly occurred when a tyre burst while the truck was descending the slope at the accident-prone Ton Krathin curve, causing the vehicle to collide with a concrete barrier, overturn, and ignite. Fortunately, sparse traffic at the time and alternative routes via the M6 motorway helped prevent further incidents involving other vehicles, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-11

Thai Police Arrest German Pedophile Linked to Child Porn Network Photo via CIB/Facebook A significant arrest was made in Chon Buri's Bang Lamung district, where a German national was detained for allegedly running an illegal dark web platform distributing child pornography. The operation, executed on March 5, was a collaborative effort between Thailand's Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) and US Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354290-thai-police-arrest-german-pedophile-linked-to-child-porn-network/

Photo via CIB/Facebook A significant arrest was made in Chon Buri's Bang Lamung district, where a German national was detained for allegedly running an illegal dark web platform distributing child pornography. The operation, executed on March 5, was a collaborative effort between Thailand's Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) and US Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Acting on a Criminal Court arrest warrant issued on March 3, authorities raided the residence of the 54-year-old, identified only as Steffen, a retired programmer from Germany. The investigation initially began after a tip-off from HSI, which had been monitoring Steffen's activities on two dark web sites reportedly used to distribute child pornography over the last three years. Payments for access to this illicit content were made using cryptocurrencies such as bitcoin and Monero, with transactions funneled through digital wallets before being converted to other currencies and transferred into Steffen's Thai bank accounts. During the raid, officers confiscated numerous electronic devices, including a laptop, a server computer, and a mobile phone, alongside a storage device containing over 140,000 pornographic files. Additional items seized included bank records, credit cards, and multiple SIM cards associated with the operation. Steffen admitted to managing two dark web sites with over 5,000 child pornography videos, attracting over 10,000 subscribers and generating illegal earnings estimated at 3.5 million baht. He confessed to beginning this illegal activity after retiring and moving to Thailand. Photo via CIB/Facebook The charges against him include possession, distribution, production, and trade of child pornography for commercial benefit. He faces prosecution under Thai law, with the possibility of extradition to face further charges internationally. The investigation continues, as authorities work alongside global law enforcement to identify additional suspects and subscribers linked to this illicit network, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-11

Bangkok Man Arrested for Knife Attack Following Road Rage Incident Photo via KhaoSod In Bangkok's Sai Mai area, a man was arrested for allegedly attempting to attack another man with a knife after a road rage incident. Police Colonel Anan Warasat, together with Deputy Police Superintendent Kosolpiya Seema and officers from Bang Khen Police Station, carried out the arrest. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354289-bangkok-man-arrested-for-knife-attack-following-road-rage-incident/

Photo via KhaoSod In Bangkok's Sai Mai area, a man was arrested for allegedly attempting to attack another man with a knife after a road rage incident. Police Colonel Anan Warasat, together with Deputy Police Superintendent Kosolpiya Seema and officers from Bang Khen Police Station, carried out the arrest. The altercation occurred on March 6, when 50-year-old Weerachai Phumai reportedly engaged in a traffic dispute, chasing and attempting to stab another man. CCTV footage captured the incident, leading police to Weerachai, who was found outside his condominium on Soi Phahon Yothin 52. Weerachai admitted to being the individual shown in the footage and confessed to the knife attack. He explained that he acted out of anger after being provoked by the motorcyclist who allegedly cut him off and shouted insults. Acting on impulse, Weerachai retrieved a folding knife from his bag and pursued the man, with the entire episode caught on video and shared across social media. Police confiscated a blue Honda Wave 125 motorcycle, a folding knife, a black shoulder bag, and a white helmet linked to the incident. Facing charges of attempted bodily harm and carrying a weapon, Weerachai has been transferred to Bang Khen Police Station for further legal proceedings, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-11

Train-Truck Collision in Prachin Buri: SRT Confirms Safety Measures Were Active Picture courtesy of ทีมพีอาร์การรถไฟแห่งประเทศไทย Facebook The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has clarified details surrounding the recent collision between a train and a truck, which occurred at a railway crossing between Kabin Buri and Nong Sang stations in Prachin Buri province on March 8. Contrary to initial reports suggesting a lack of safety measures, the SRT confirmed that all warning signals and barriers were operational during the incident. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354287-train-truck-collision-in-prachin-buri-srt-confirms-safety-measures-were-active/

Picture courtesy of ทีมพีอาร์การรถไฟแห่งประเทศไทย Facebook The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has clarified details surrounding the recent collision between a train and a truck, which occurred at a railway crossing between Kabin Buri and Nong Sang stations in Prachin Buri province on March 8. Contrary to initial reports suggesting a lack of safety measures, the SRT confirmed that all warning signals and barriers were operational during the incident. SRT Governor Weerit Amrapal stated that an investigation showed the crossing at kilometre marker 163/1-2 was equipped with an automatic half-barrier. At the time of the accident, the lights and audible alerts were functioning correctly, and the barrier was down to prevent road traffic from crossing. However, the collision occurred when a 10-wheeler truck ignored these signals. Despite the train slowing down as required upon approaching a crossing, the truck driver manoeuvred around the barrier in a zigzag pattern, leading to the crash. Governor Weerit highlighted the ongoing importance of strictly adhering to traffic laws at railway crossings, as stipulated in Section 62 of the Land Traffic Act of 1979. This law mandates drivers to slow down and stop at least 5 metres from the tracks when crossing signals or barriers are active. The SRT is committed to pursuing legal action against traffic law violators who compromise safety and cause damage to railway property, underscoring the necessity for all road users to follow established safety protocols, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-11

Motorcycle Discovery Uncovers Fatal Stabbing in Ayutthaya Photo via KhaoSod The discovery of an abandoned motorcycle in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya led to uncovering a grim crime, as a 23-year-old Myanmar national, Pai Aung Chit, confessed to murdering his friend, Zaza, over a 5,000 baht debt. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354285-motorcycle-discovery-uncovers-fatal-stabbing-in-ayutthaya/

Photo via KhaoSod The discovery of an abandoned motorcycle in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya led to uncovering a grim crime, as a 23-year-old Myanmar national, Pai Aung Chit, confessed to murdering his friend, Zaza, over a 5,000 baht debt. Police Colonel Somjet Maenbutr of Wang Noi Police Station was alerted about the blue and white motorcycle late on Sunday, March 9. The bike, registered to Zaza, a 30-year-old factory worker, prompted an investigation into her whereabouts, as both she and Pai had been missing. When brought in for questioning, Pai admitted to killing Zaza and disposing of her body in marshland nearby. He guided police and forensic officers to the site where her body, bearing five stab wounds, was found. Pai recounted that he and Zaza had been in a short-term relationship. The fatal confrontation arose over the unpaid debt, allegedly escalating when Zaza grabbed his phone, deleted data, and threw it. Pai alleged that during their struggle, Zaza brandished a knife; he claimed self-defense when he overpowered and stabbed her repeatedly. After pushing her body into the water, he disposed of the motorcycle and returned to work. However, Police Colonel Somjet remains sceptical of Pai's account, highlighting inconsistencies with evidence. Zaza was known as a reliable worker who saved money and had recently bought mobile phones for other workers, raising questions about her financial situation. Investigations remain ongoing as authorities sift through evidence to determine the full circumstances surrounding the tragic incident, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-11

Four Women Arrested for Ketamine Use at Pool Villa in Cha-am Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Phetchaburi's Cha-am district arrested four women suspected of drug use following a tip-off from a local resident. The incident unfolded on March 11, when Cha-am Police Station officers received intelligence about drug activities in the Tri Pool Villa area of Mueang Cha-am. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354284-four-women-arrested-for-ketamine-use-at-pool-villa-in-cha-am/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Phetchaburi's Cha-am district arrested four women suspected of drug use following a tip-off from a local resident. The incident unfolded on March 11, when Cha-am Police Station officers received intelligence about drug activities in the Tri Pool Villa area of Mueang Cha-am. Led by Police Colonel Aphirak Permchai, Deputy Superintendent of Investigation, Police Colonel Theerapong Raksawiang, and Police Lieutenant Colonel Aphichat Phothia, the police team swiftly executed a planned raid on the premises. Upon entering, they encountered individuals outside and discovered four women inside a room exhibiting signs of drug use. During questioning, the suspects confessed to using ketamine. A subsequent search revealed ketamine on an ironing board within the room. The women, identified as Deer from Samut Prakan and Thipawan, admitted ownership and consumption of the drug prior to police arrival. The other two women also tested positive for drug use. Police gathered evidence and escorted the four women to investigators for further legal proceedings. Urine tests conducted on other individuals at the location yielded negative results, and they were released without charges. This arrest highlights ongoing efforts by local authorities to address drug-related activities in the region, responding to community concerns with swift and effective action, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-11

Thailand Updates Rules on Unregistered Cohabitation as Marital Status Picture courtesy of Elizabeth Tsung, Unsplash The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has revised its criteria concerning cohabitation without marriage registration, effective from January 22. These new guidelines, signed by NACC Chairman Sucahart Trakul Kasemsuk and published in the Royal Gazette, align with the amended Civil and Commercial Code, bringing clarity to the status of unregistered cohabitations considered as marital relationships. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354282-thailand-updates-rules-on-unregistered-cohabitation-as-marital-status/

Picture courtesy of Elizabeth Tsung, Unsplash The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has revised its criteria concerning cohabitation without marriage registration, effective from January 22. These new guidelines, signed by NACC Chairman Sucahart Trakul Kasemsuk and published in the Royal Gazette, align with the amended Civil and Commercial Code, bringing clarity to the status of unregistered cohabitations considered as marital relationships. Known as the Criteria for People Cohabiting as Spouses Without Marriage Registration (No. 2) B.E. 2568, the update supersedes the previous 2561 guidelines. The changes aim to ensure coherence with the revised Civil and Commercial Code (No. 24) of 2567, specifically by repealing Clause 3 of the earlier guidelines and implementing updated conditions. Under the new regulations, individuals cohabiting with state officials, without formal marriage registration, can be recognised as spouses under the Organic Act on Anti-Corruption B.E. 2561, provided they meet certain criteria. These include: 1. Conducting a marriage ceremony or similar event acknowledged by family or the community, reflecting a traditional marital status. 2. The state official presenting themselves as married or widely accepted publicly in this role, even if previously divorced but continuing to display marital status publicly. These guidelines aim to reflect both societal norms and legal acknowledgment of cohabiting relationships, providing clarity in statuses that affect legal and anti-corruption frameworks. This update signifies a step towards recognising diverse forms of partnership beyond the conventional registered marriages in Thai society, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-11

Thailand’s Labour Minister Pushes for National Minimum Wage Increase to 400 Baht Workers from three subcontractor companies protested on Sukhumvit Road in Chon Buri, over unpaid wages due on July 31, 2024 | Photo via KhaoSod Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn is steadfast in his commitment to raise Thailand's national minimum wage to 400 baht, despite concerns about the impact on small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and inflation. The proposal is to be reviewed by a tripartite wage committee on March 12. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354281-thailand’s-labour-minister-pushes-for-national-minimum-wage-increase-to-400-baht/

Workers from three subcontractor companies protested on Sukhumvit Road in Chon Buri, over unpaid wages due on July 31, 2024 | Photo via KhaoSod Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn is steadfast in his commitment to raise Thailand's national minimum wage to 400 baht, despite concerns about the impact on small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and inflation. The proposal is to be reviewed by a tripartite wage committee on March 12. Addressing concerns in Parliament, Phiphat reiterated his dedication to the wage hike, drawing parallels to the 2012 wage adjustment model used in seven provinces, including Bangkok. After three postponements, the push for a wage increase highlights growing concerns over wage inequality across Thailand. Currently, only a few provinces, including Phuket, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, and Samui district in Surat Thani, are set to implement the 400-baht minimum wage from January 1. Phiphat expressed particular concern about the broader economic impact, especially on SMEs, but remained hopeful about reaching a solution. The wage committee, supported by subcommittees from 76 provinces, is responsible for evaluating the provinces suited to implement this increase. While urging the use of pilot provinces as a test model, Phiphat also suggested applying the 400-baht wage to specific occupations showing economic improvement. If not approved, a second meeting may occur within 15 days. To ease potential economic strain, Phiphat discussed measures like tax deductions for businesses and lower employer contributions to the Social Security Fund. The Labour Ministry has identified 129 occupations eligible for the new minimum wage, though 13 occupations will remain below the threshold. As the committee nears the end of its term, Phiphat's determination underlines the importance of addressing wage disparities while balancing economic stability, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-11

Thailand Joins BRICS, Strengthening Economic and Global Alliances Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa | Photo via AmbPoohMaris/X Thailand’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Maris Sangiampongsa, has robustly defended the nation’s recent decision to join the BRICS alliance, asserting that it aligns well with national interests and will provide significant economic and cooperative benefits. Addressing the Senate on March 10, Maris outlined the strategic advantages of Thailand's inclusion in this powerful bloc of emerging markets. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354280-thailand-joins-brics-strengthening-economic-and-global-alliances/

Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa | Photo via AmbPoohMaris/X Thailand’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Maris Sangiampongsa, has robustly defended the nation’s recent decision to join the BRICS alliance, asserting that it aligns well with national interests and will provide significant economic and cooperative benefits. Addressing the Senate on March 10, Maris outlined the strategic advantages of Thailand's inclusion in this powerful bloc of emerging markets. BRICS, featuring Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, along with newly joined partners such as the UAE, Iran, Egypt, and Ethiopia, offers Thailand a substantial platform for addressing global geopolitical issues. Maris highlighted the potential for Thailand to gain from advancements in technology sectors like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and energy security by associating with BRICS. Maris emphasised that joining this partnership positions Thailand within a large and dynamic market, fostering economic growth and international cooperation while promoting multilateralism for balanced global interests. Thailand's involvement with BRICS follows an invitation from Russian President Vladimir Putin, granted when Russia was set to chair the bloc in 2024. Presently, Brazil holds the chairmanship. This move complements Thailand's participation in various international frameworks, including the US-led Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec). Simultaneously, Thailand continues to engage in significant trade discussions with the European Union, working towards a free trade agreement under the EU-Thailand Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA). The legal ramifications of joining BRICS were assessed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' Department of Treaties and Legal Affairs, which concluded that Thailand's entry did not constitute treaty participation, thus bypassing the need for Parliamentary approval under the constitution's Section 178. As Thailand integrates into the BRICS bloc, it aims to bolster its international standing and economic resilience, tapping into shared resources and innovation while reaffirming its role as a dynamic player on the global stage, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-11

Thailand Proposes Tax Incentives to Boost Plug-In Hybrid Vehicle Production A plug-in hybrid vehicle charging | Photo via Rathaphon Nanthapreecha/Pexels Thailand is set to revamp its tax incentives for plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) in a bid to stimulate domestic production and adoption. Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul announced the proposal, which plans to link tax rates to a vehicle’s battery charge travel range, with potential implementation from 2026, pending Cabinet approval in April. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354279-thailand-proposes-tax-incentives-to-boost-plug-in-hybrid-vehicle-production/

A plug-in hybrid vehicle charging | Photo via Rathaphon Nanthapreecha/Pexels Thailand is set to revamp its tax incentives for plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) in a bid to stimulate domestic production and adoption. Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul announced the proposal, which plans to link tax rates to a vehicle’s battery charge travel range, with potential implementation from 2026, pending Cabinet approval in April. The new tax structure marks a shift from the traditional method of taxing vehicles based on carbon emissions. Instead, PHEVs with longer electric ranges will benefit from lower tax rates. This move aims to encourage the manufacturing of more efficient vehicles, helping boost the automotive sector. Significantly, restrictions on fuel tank sizes for PHEVs will be lifted under this proposal. Current tax regulations impose a 5% tax on PHEVs with an electric range over 80 kilometres, while those with less cover face a 10% rate. Details of the proposed system will be clarified post-Cabinet approval. Additionally, Thailand's Excise Department is revising the battery tax structure to favour environmentally sustainable options. The existing flat 8% excise tax on all batteries will transition to a tiered system. Batteries with longer lifespans and higher energy density will have lower tax rates, while disposable batteries will incur higher taxes. As Southeast Asia’s leading automotive production hub, Thailand is keen to revitalise its industry amid a downturn. Auto production dropped by 10% last year, with both domestic sales and exports declining significantly. The influx of investment from Chinese EV manufacturers like BYD and Great Wall Motors, totalling over US$3 billion, underscores the competitive pressure in a sector crucial to Thailand’s GDP. By tailoring tax policies to incentivise innovation and sustainability, Thailand aims to reinforce its position as a key player in the global automotive landscape while adapting to evolving consumer and environmental demands, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-11

Thailand Seizes 200,000 Illegal E-Cigarette Items in Major Bust Picture courtesy of กรมศุลกากร : The Customs Department Facebook A significant crackdown has led to the seizure of over 200,000 illegally imported e-cigarette items from China, with a total value exceeding 33 million baht. This major operation was unveiled by three Thai ministers on March 10, including Justice Minister Pol. Col. Thavee Sodsong, Minister Jiraphon Sinthuprai, and Deputy Finance Minister Chulaphan Amornwiwat, during a high-profile visit to Laem Chabang Port Customs Office. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354278-thailand-seizes-200000-illegal-e-cigarette-items-in-major-bust/

Picture courtesy of กรมศุลกากร : The Customs Department Facebook A significant crackdown has led to the seizure of over 200,000 illegally imported e-cigarette items from China, with a total value exceeding 33 million baht. This major operation was unveiled by three Thai ministers on March 10, including Justice Minister Pol. Col. Thavee Sodsong, Minister Jiraphon Sinthuprai, and Deputy Finance Minister Chulaphan Amornwiwat, during a high-profile visit to Laem Chabang Port Customs Office. Collaborating with the Department of Special Investigation, Customs Department, and Royal Thai Police, the operation involved inspections of shipping containers, resulting in the discovery of illegal goods including disposable e-cigarettes, e-liquids, and vape pods. The consignment, in breach of the Customs Act of 2017, also contravened the Ministry of Commerce’s 2016 regulations banning certain goods, reiterated by a 2014 declaration categorising such items as prohibited imports. The Customs Department, under the guidance of Director General Teerach Atanavanich and his team, will appraise the seized e-cigarettes before handing them over to the relevant authorities for legal action. The Department of Special Investigation plans to expedite its inquiry to trace those involved in importing and distributing these items, with the goal of effectively deterring the proliferation of e-cigarettes nationwide. By strengthening coordination among national agencies, Thailand aims to underscore its commitment to tackling illegal imports and ensuring the enforcement of stringent measures against e-cigarette distribution, ultimately seeking to preserve public health, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-11

Thailand Poised for High-Speed Rail Revolution Linking Three Airports Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's grand vision of connecting Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao airports via high-speed rail is edging closer to reality. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) board is primed for final approvals, with hopes pinned on a Cabinet green light by May. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354277-thailand-poised-for-high-speed-rail-revolution-linking-three-airports/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's grand vision of connecting Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao airports via high-speed rail is edging closer to reality. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) board is primed for final approvals, with hopes pinned on a Cabinet green light by May. SRT Deputy Governor Anan Phonimdang announced that revamped contract details have already cleared dedicated subcommittees. Awaiting the SRT board's endorsement, the contract will then transit to the Office of the Attorney-General before seeking the Cabinet's final sign-off. Upon approval, Asia Era One, a subsidiary of the Charoen Pokphand Group, stands ready to receive a Notice to Proceed by May, aiming to commence construction as early as June. Initial works will focus on areas around U-Tapao Airport's secondary runway and the bustling Bang Sue–Don Mueang corridor, a critical touchpoint overlapping with the Thai-Chinese high-speed rail project. Strategically using precast rail segments, offsite manufacturing will expedite onsite assembly, minimising disruption. The new line will share tracks with the existing Airport Rail Link (ARL) between Phaya Thai station and Suvarnabhumi, setting the stage for a transformative travel upgrade. While the CP Group deliberates on train models, opting for wider models may necessitate platform enhancements to align with current infrastructure. Spanning nine stations across five provinces, this ambitious 220-kilometre, 271 billion baht project promises future riders rapid commutes under one hour, with trains whizzing at speeds up to 250 km/h. As anticipation builds, this high-speed connection is set to be a game-changer for Thai transport, significantly bolstering connectivity and economic growth in the region, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-11

US Intelligence Chief Tulsi Gabbard Embarks on Diplomatic Asia Tour File photo for reference only Tulsi Gabbard, serving as the US Director of National Intelligence, has embarked on a significant diplomatic trip across Asia. The journey will see her visiting Japan, Thailand, and ultimately India, where she'll participate in the prestigious Rasina Dialogue in New Delhi on March 18, addressing key issues such as counterterrorism and cybersecurity. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354275-us-intelligence-chief-tulsi-gabbard-embarks-on-diplomatic-asia-tour/

File photo for reference only Tulsi Gabbard, serving as the US Director of National Intelligence, has embarked on a significant diplomatic trip across Asia. The journey will see her visiting Japan, Thailand, and ultimately India, where she'll participate in the prestigious Rasina Dialogue in New Delhi on March 18, addressing key issues such as counterterrorism and cybersecurity. Her schedule also includes a visit to France on her return to the US. This marks Gabbard’s second international outing in her current role, having recently attended the Munich Security Conference. Her first stop was Hawaii, a crucial hub for US military and intelligence operations. There, Gabbard engaged with both military and intelligence officers to reinforce intelligence priorities and observe training exercises. Despite the lack of disclosed details regarding her itinerary in Japan and Thailand, her participation in the Rasina Conference highlights her diplomatic priorities. Held under the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the event gathers senior security officials globally, including those from Russia. It's yet unclear if Gabbard will meet Russian representatives amid ongoing US efforts to mediate the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Gabbard's successful discourse on counterterrorism at the Munich Conference earlier this year hints at her potential diplomatic approach during this tour. As the Trump administration pushes for lasting international partnerships, her speeches are expected to emphasise intelligence-sharing and cooperation across new technological frontiers, offering reassurance to US allies in an uncertain political landscape, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-11