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file photo for reference only US President Donald Trump has announced his success in resolving "eight wars," highlighting his attention on the ongoing tensions between Thailand and Cambodia. Speaking to US media after the Special Asean Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Trump stated that Thailand and Cambodia have shown signs of resolving their conflicts with US intervention. Thai officials clarified that they misinterpreted Trump's remarks, as he did not blame Thailand for reigniting hostilities. Trump’s comments have sparked extensive coverage in Cambodian media, focusing on his assertions that Thailand had provoked recent conflicts. However, according to a full transcript, Trump’s reference was mainly aimed at showcasing the United States' diplomatic success rather than accusing any party of initiating fights. The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represented by Deputy Spokeswoman Maratee Nalita Andamo, confirmed that detailed evidence had been supplied to the US and other nations to clarify their stance. Both US and Thai leaders appear committed to ongoing dialogue, with US President Trump and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul agreeing to continue discussions at the foreign minister level. Prime Minister Anutin reassured that the situation is well-managed, stressing that Thailand's actions are in defence of its sovereignty after being attacked. He emphasised the need for a neutral stance among all parties and the importance of resolving the issue bilaterally. Meanwhile, Thailand's Defence Minister Gen Nattaphon Narkphanit remarked that the conflict is not purely military but involves complex political and diplomatic dimensions. The situation continues to require careful management and dialogue to avoid escalation, reported the Bangkok Post. Key Takeaways Trump claims credit for resolving "eight wars," including efforts in Thailand and Cambodia. Thai officials reject claims of provoking conflict while emphasising defence. Ongoing diplomatic efforts aim for peaceful resolution via foreign minister talks. Related Stories: Thailand Exposes Cambodia Again at UN Over Landmines, Aggression Thai PM snubs World Court in border spat with Cambodia Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-24

File photo In a significant setback for US President Donald Trump, the Supreme Court has blocked the deployment of the National Guard to Chicago to protect ICE agents. In their decision, the justices stated that the government lacked the necessary authority to use the military for this purpose at this stage. Conservative Justices Alito, Thomas, and Gorsuch voiced their dissent against the ruling. A legal challenge arose over Trump's attempt to federalise the National Guard, arguing that it was necessary when regular forces were insufficient. His administration sought clarity on the term "regular forces," questioning whether it included federal agents like those in ICE. The court interpreted "regular forces" as the standing military, implying that the law did not support Trump's action to protect ICE agents. Justice Kavanaugh, who supported the court’s decision on narrower grounds, agreed with the interpretation of "regular forces" as the US military. He highlighted potential implications for future crises. Justice Alito, among others, criticised the decision, saying it undermined the president's constitutional authority to protect federal officers. Despite easing tensions at a Chicago ICE facility, the Trump administration continued to press the need for deployment. The Supreme Court's decision, following months of deliberation, puts a spotlight on presidential power and National Guard use. Recent events, including a National Guard shooting in Washington, added urgency to the case. The Chicago-based 7th Circuit previously upheld a decision blocking the deployment, which the administration deemed as compromising presidential authority. Legal nuances surrounding federal law enforcement support complicated the Supreme Court's deliberation. Historically, as seen in the 1827 Martin v. Mott case, the court granted presidents discretionary powers during emergencies, but states have contested the equivalence of current protests to wartime threats, reported CNN. Key Takeaways: The Supreme Court blocks Trump's attempt to use the National Guard in Chicago. Justices debated presidential authority and federal law interpretive nuances. Tensions at the Chicago ICE facility have eased, affecting the urgency of deployment. Adapted by ASEAN Now from CNN 2025-12-24

In a bold move, President Donald Trump announced that the US plans to keep or sell oil seized from Venezuelan tankers, along with the vessels themselves. Trump's declaration comes amid heightened efforts by Washington to pressure Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro to step down. Addressing reporters in Florida, Trump confirmed, "we're going to keep it," suggesting possible uses for the oil, including selling or adding it to the Strategic Reserves. This announcement follows the US military's recent seizure of two oil tankers off Venezuela's coast. The US has long accused Venezuela of using oil revenues to fuel drug-related crimes, a charge that Venezuela dismisses as "piracy." As tensions rise, the US Coast Guard continues to track a third tanker, described as part of a Venezuelan "dark fleet" circumventing US sanctions. Trump expressed confidence in intercepting the ship, saying, "It's moving along, and we'll end up getting it." Adding to the growing tension, the US military executed a strike on a suspected trafficking vessel in the eastern Pacific, resulting in one casualty. Trump hinted that the intent behind these seizures might be to unseat Maduro but left the decision open-ended: "That's up to him what he wants to do." In response to US actions, Nicolás Maduro criticised Trump's emphasis on international matters over domestic ones, advising that America should "focus on its own country's affairs." The US has augmented its military presence in the Caribbean and Pacific, carrying out strikes on alleged Venezuelan smuggling boats without public evidence of drug transportation, raising congressional concerns. Trump also unveiled intentions to target land routes, warning smugglers of the severe consequences. Meanwhile, the United Nations Security Council is slated to convene at Venezuela's request to address "ongoing US aggression," reflecting deepening international discord. Venezuela's dependency on oil exports for public funding faces significant disruption, further inflaming relations. These actions underscore the complex geopolitical tensions surrounding US interventions and international oil politics, reported the BBC. Key Takeaways President Trump stated the US will keep or sell seized Venezuelan oil. Tensions heighten as the US increases military action and pursues tanker seizures. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro urges focus on domestic US issues. Related Stories: US Seizes Second Oil Tanker Amid Venezuela Tensions Trump Confirms Seizure of Oil Tanker Near Venezuela Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-24

Ukrainian forces have pulled back from the eastern town of Siversk, conceding ground as Russia continues its slow but steady advance. The Ukrainian military announced the withdrawal on Tuesday, citing the need to protect their soldiers and maintain combat effectiveness amid the overwhelming manpower of the Russian forces. The loss of Siversk positions Russian troops closer to Sloviansk and Kramatorsk, key cities still under Ukrainian control in Donetsk. Before the conflict began, Siversk had a population of about 11,000, but extensive fighting has left it devastated. Russia had claimed control over Siversk two weeks prior, a claim initially denied by Ukraine. With Siversk's fall, Russia now controls approximately 75% of Donetsk and nearly the entire Luhansk region. Casualties have continued to mount, with recent Russian drone and missile attacks killing at least three people, including a child. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky faces pressure from US President Donald Trump to negotiate territorial concessions, but he remains firm against any such deals, demanding security guarantees instead. Peace talks mediated by the US over the weekend have not produced significant progress. Russia's overnight offensive involved 635 drones and 38 missiles, according to Ukraine's air force, with most intercepted. However, the attacks led to fatalities, including a 76-year-old woman and a 72-year-old man in separate incidents, demonstrating the ongoing risks faced by civilians. Ukraine reportedly retaliated by hitting a petrochemical plant in southern Russia, causing a fire but no injuries. With power shortages becoming routine, Ukraine is grappling with energy failures, exacerbated by regular Russian attacks targeting infrastructure. Emergency power shutdowns are expected, leaving parts of the country without electricity for extended periods. The Ukrainian energy system has suffered its ninth major attack this year, leading to severe power disruptions in multiple regions. Kyiv speculates that these intensified attacks are linked to the recent assassination of a Russian general in Moscow, though Ukraine has not officially commented. The BBC reported that residents continue to adapt to the harsh realities of the conflict, bracing for falling temperatures and additional hardships in the coming days. Key Takeaways: Ukraine withdraws from Siversk asRussia consolidates its position. Escalating drone and missile attacks result in civilian casualties and power shortages. Peace talks remain stagnant, with heavy pressures on Ukrainian and US leaders. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-24

Russell Brand has been charged with additional offences, including rape, following authorisation from the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). The Metropolitan Police announced these charges involve two more women, with incidents allegedly occurring in 2009. Brand, known for his roles in comedy and film, will appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on 20 January 2026. Brand had previously pleaded not guilty to five other charges, including rape, sexual assault, and indecent assault, involving four women. These incidents reportedly took place between 1999 and 2005 across central London and Bournemouth. The upcoming trial for the initial charges is scheduled to start at Southwark Crown Court on 16 June 2026. The investigation into Brand began after reports surfaced in September 2023 from the Sunday Times, the Times, and Channel 4's Dispatches. The CPS outlined that the new charges pertain to separate women, reflecting the extensive and ongoing nature of these allegations. Detective Chief Inspector Tariq Farooqi from the Metropolitan Police stated that the women involved are being supported by specially trained officers. This development in the case highlights the serious nature of the charges Brand faces, with implications that extend to both his personal life and career. Brand’s journey from stand-up comedy in Essex to international celebrity involved hosting popular TV shows such as Big Brother's Big Mouth and starring in Hollywood films like Forgetting Sarah Marshall. These allegations have cast a shadow over his public image, creating a legal battle that will be closely watched in the years ahead, reported the BBC. Key Takeaways Russell Brand faces new charges of rape and sexual assault, involving two additional women. Previous charges include five offences against four women, with a trial set for Southwark Crown Court in June 2026. Brand appeared as a popular comedian and actor, with a career now mired in serious legal challenges. Related Story: Russell Brand: BBC and Channel 4 investigate allegations Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-24

US President Donald Trump reportedly travelled on Jeffrey Epstein's private jet more frequently than previously believed, according to an email from the US Department of Justice (DOJ). The email, dated 7 January 2020, lists Trump as a passenger on Epstein's jet eight times between 1993 and 1996. Despite the revelation, Trump has consistently denied any wrongdoing related to Epstein, and he previously claimed, "I was never on Epstein's plane." This disclosure emerged as part of a trove of documents the DOJ released, following legal obligations to publish what’s known as the Epstein files. These documents, totalling over 30,000 pages, have come under scrutiny for potentially containing "untrue and sensationalist claims" against Trump. The DOJ confirmed that some claims lacked credibility and reiterated their commitment to transparency while safeguarding Epstein’s victims. In response to the revelations, legal experts stress the listing of Trump's name does not imply misconduct. The documents detail that Trump flew with Epstein and other individuals, including Ghislaine Maxwell, during the specified period, noting one particular flight where Trump and Epstein were the sole passengers. The latest document dump is part of a continued release process delayed beyond a Congressional deadline last Friday. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche acknowledged the delay, citing the need to protect victims’ identities and promising further releases in the coming weeks, reported the BBC. Key Takeaways: Trump reportedly flew on Epstein's jet eight times in the 1990s, a DOJ email reveals. The DOJ documents claim "untrue and sensationalist" allegations against Trump. Further releases of the Epstein files are expected, pending victim protection. Related story: Epstein Files: Trump Informed Months Ago His Name Is Included Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-24 Related Stories:

BOT Prepares 70 Billion Baht for New Year Revelry Cash Demand file photo The Bank of Thailand (BOT) is gearing up for New Year celebrations by allocating banknotes totalling 70 billion baht for citizen withdrawals across the nation. This move guarantees a steady cash flow to adequately support the anticipated public spending frenzy for the New Year 2026 festivities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382558-bot-prepares-70-billion-baht-for-new-year-revelry-cash-demand/

Crackdown on Dodgy Goods: Customs Targets Online Sales The Thai Customs Department is clamping down on the sale of non-certified products through online platforms. In a bid to tackle the flow of illegal or substandard goods, the department has signed agreements with online sales platforms. Director-General Phantong Loykulnanta announced this initiative should help reduce the availability of such items. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382542-crackdown-on-dodgy-goods-customs-targets-online-sales/

Enhanced Thai Immigration Measures Rolled Out for Festive Travel Picture courtesy of Siam Rath In a coordinated effort, the Immigration Bureau and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) are enhancing security measures to ensure the safety and well-being of tourists during the Christmas and New Year 2026 period. On December 22, 2025, key officials, including Pol. Lt. Gen. Panumas Boonlaksum and Mr. Tosapol Wannasuphaphol, oversaw the deployment of immigration officers at Suvarnabhumi Airport to facilitate smooth immigration procedures over the festive period. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382540-enhanced-thai-immigration-measures-rolled-out-for-festive-travel/

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 24 December 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1382556-thailand-live-wednesday-24-december-2025/

Thailand Faces 40 Road Deaths Daily as Drunk Driving Persists Thailand's road crisis is making headlines as civil society groups highlight the grim reality of 40 fatalities daily and losses reaching 600 billion baht annually. These groups are advocating for tough measures against drunk drivers, including vehicle confiscation during the New Year 2026. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382541-thailand-faces-40-road-deaths-daily-as-drunk-driving-persists/

Cambodia Urges Thailand to Hold Border Talks in Malaysia Thailand's Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow speaks during a news conference in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Monday, Dec. 22, 2025, after a special meeting of ASEAN foreign ministers to discuss an ongoing border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia. (AP photo/Azneal Ishak) Cambodia has requested that Thailand move their border talks to Kuala Lumpur, after recent deadly clashes. The proposal comes after two weeks of intense fighting between the nations, resulting in significant casualties. Cambodia's Defence Ministry emphasised Malaysia's role as a neutral venue for discussions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382562-cambodia-urges-thailand-to-hold-border-talks-in-malaysia/

Thailand's Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow speaks during a news conference in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Monday, Dec. 22, 2025, after a special meeting of ASEAN foreign ministers to discuss an ongoing border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia. (AP photo/Azneal Ishak) Cambodia has requested that Thailand move their border talks to Kuala Lumpur, after recent deadly clashes. The proposal comes after two weeks of intense fighting between the nations, resulting in significant casualties. Cambodia's Defence Ministry emphasised Malaysia's role as a neutral venue for discussions. This month’s renewed violence broke a previous truce, leading to 23 deaths in Thailand and 21 in Cambodia, while displacing over 900,000 people. The two countries have faced increasing tensions along their border, prompting an urgent need for diplomacy. Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Thailand's Foreign Minister, initially announced that talks would take place in Thailand. Despite this announcement, Cambodia’s Defence Minister, Tea Seiha, proposed moving discussions to the Malaysian capital for security reasons. In a letter to Thailand’s Defence Minister, Nattaphon Narkphanit, Seiha stressed the ongoing border clashes as a primary reason for the venue change. Malaysia, as the current ASEAN chair, had already agreed to host the meeting. In parallel developments, Cambodia accused Thailand of conducting air strikes on its territory, fuelling the conflict. Fighting continued along the border, with Cambodian officials reporting shelling in the city of Poipet. Both nations acknowledge the pressing need for negotiation to prevent further escalation of hostilities. Looking ahead, ASEAN-mediated talks in Malaysia have the potential to stabilise the situation. Both countries’ willingness to engage in dialogue underlines the international community's efforts to address regional disputes. The situation remains delicate, and the forthcoming discussions will be closely monitored for potential resolutions, reported Thai Newsroom. Key Takeaways Cambodia and Thailand are encouraged to hold peace talks in Malaysia. Recent clashes have resulted in multiple casualties and displaced many. ASEAN plays a central role in mediating between the two countries. Related Stories: Thailand Ramps Up Border Talks with Cambodia to Ease Tensions Hun Manet Demands Urgent Border Talks After Soldier Killed Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-12-23

Thai Marines Rescue Starved Lions and Bears at Border Casino Picture via Facebook: สรยุทธ สุทัศนะจินดา กรรมกรข่าว Thai marines have made a distressing discovery in Ban Tha Sen, Trat province, where they found lions and bears in appalling conditions at a Chinese-linked casino. Reports indicate that the animals, discovered in metal cages on December 22, had been starving for several days due to their lack of food and water. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382559-thai-marines-rescue-starved-lions-and-bears-at-border-casino/

Picture via Facebook: สรยุทธ สุทัศนะจินดา กรรมกรข่าว Thai marines have made a distressing discovery in Ban Tha Sen, Trat province, where they found lions and bears in appalling conditions at a Chinese-linked casino. Reports indicate that the animals, discovered in metal cages on December 22, had been starving for several days due to their lack of food and water. On conducting a raid at the Thamoda casino area, the Royal Thai Marine forces exposed the shocking state of wildlife cruelty. The compound, located near the Thai-Cambodian border, was allegedly being used by Cambodian military personnel. Inside, marines discovered two lions and three bears suffering from severe malnutrition, confined and neglected for three to four days. A Chinese national associated with the local casino network is believed to be the suspected owner of the animals. Marines, cautious of the animals' aggressive response due to hunger, resorted to throwing food and water into the cages to temporarily address their horrific condition. The raid comes in the wake of recent violent clashes in the region, leading to speculation that the animals were abandoned amid the chaos. Military officers promptly contacted the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation to request their assistance in rescuing and relocating the animals. Today, December 23, officials plan to begin the extraction process once they confirm the surrounding area is safe from landmines. Given the substantial size of the cages, officials anticipate using heavy machinery to securely relocate the captive creatures, reported The Thaiger. Key Takeaways: Lions and bears were found starving in cages at a Trat casino. The owner, connected to a casino network, is suspected to be Chinese. Authorities are planning an urgent rescue operation today. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-12-23

BOT Prepares 70 Billion Baht for New Year Revelry Cash Demand file photo The Bank of Thailand (BOT) is gearing up for New Year celebrations by allocating banknotes totalling 70 billion baht for citizen withdrawals across the nation. This move guarantees a steady cash flow to adequately support the anticipated public spending frenzy for the New Year 2026 festivities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382558-bot-prepares-70-billion-baht-for-new-year-revelry-cash-demand/

file photo The Bank of Thailand (BOT) is gearing up for New Year celebrations by allocating banknotes totalling 70 billion baht for citizen withdrawals across the nation. This move guarantees a steady cash flow to adequately support the anticipated public spending frenzy for the New Year 2026 festivities. In a confident announcement, the BOT Assistant Governor for the Payment Infrastructure and Services Group highlighted that the allocated cash supply is expected to meet the country's demand during the festive season. Banks, under BOT’s direction, are well-prepared to facilitate public withdrawals through ATMs and branches from December 30, 2025, to January 4, 2026. Major commercial banks have declared their cash availability plans, outlining substantial reserves ready for festive withdrawals: Bangkok Bank: 40 billion baht Krungthai Bank (KTB): 37.95 billion baht Kasikornbank (KBank): 35 billion baht Siam Commercial Bank (SCB): 30.5 billion baht TMBThanachart Bank: 11 billion baht Bank of Ayudhya: 9.88 billion baht (available from December 25, 2025, to January 2, 2026) The proactive measures by BOT and commercial banks underscore their commitment to ensuring a seamless cash flow during the holiday peak. Such planning is expected to keep the nation’s economy buoyant, facilitating smooth transactions for consumers and retailers alike as the year-end countdown begins. Looking forward, the focus remains on maintaining ATM and branch efficiency to support the high transaction volumes. This financial groundwork supports consumer confidence and strengthens the festive spirit across Thailand as the nation enters the New Year, reported Thai PBS WORLD. Key Takeaways BOT has allocated 70 billion baht for New Year cash withdrawals nationally. Major banks have announced significant cash supplies for public access. Efforts aim to maintain a smooth cash flow during the festive period. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS WORLD 2025-12-23

UPDATE Thai Woman Held in Taiwan Returns to Face Child Prostitution Case Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Authorities are preparing for the arrival of a Thai woman facing severe charges related to child prostitution. The 29-year-old, arrested in Taiwan, will be escorted back to Thailand on Tuesday, arriving at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Thai Airways flight TG633 at 5pm. She is accused of forcing her 12-year-old daughter into prostitution at a Tokyo massage parlour earlier this year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1379836-tokyo-child-exploitation-case-mother-arrested/#findComment-20291591

UPDATE Thai Woman Held in Taiwan Returns to Face Child Prostitution Case Authorities are preparing for the arrival of a Thai woman facing severe charges related to child prostitution. The 29-year-old, arrested in Taiwan, will be escorted back to Thailand on Tuesday, arriving at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Thai Airways flight TG633 at 5pm. She is accused of forcing her 12-year-old daughter into prostitution at a Tokyo massage parlour earlier this year. An arrest warrant for the woman was issued last month amid allegations of procuring her minor child for prostitution and engaging in human trafficking. These charges carry potential penalties, including a prison term of up to 20 years and fines reaching 2 million Thai baht. The woman allegedly fled to Taiwan soon after compelling her daughter into the illegal work. The situation has prompted serious concerns among child protection agencies and law enforcement authorities. Experts in child welfare highlight the critical need for stricter measures to prevent such incidents and safeguard vulnerable children. The Thai authorities are pressured to handle the case with diligence and ensure justice for the young victim. Experts and officials are closely monitoring developments as the case progresses through the Thai judicial system. Authorities will likely take further steps to assist and protect the child involved, aiming to provide her with the necessary support and rehabilitation. The case serves as a wake-up call concerning ongoing challenges in human trafficking and child exploitation. Key Takeaways: A Thai woman is being returned from Taiwan to face charges of child prostitution. She allegedly forced her daughter to work in a Tokyo parlour and face up to 20 years in prison. The case highlights ongoing issues in child protection and the fight against human trafficking. Related story: Tokyo Police Arrest Man for Trafficking 12-Year-Old Thai Girl Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-23

Highway Horror: Man Shot Dead in Road Rage Rampage All pictures courtesy of Daily News A chilling crime on the Prascha Chuen expressway as a 34-year-old man was shot dead at the wheel in front of his girlfriend after a road rage incident on December 23. The attack occurred after a Toyota Alphard reportedly cut in line at a toll booth before ambushing the victim's car and firing multiple shots, leading to an immediate police hunt. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage and working to trace the suspect’s vehicle. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382549-highway-horror-man-shot-dead-in-road-rage-rampage/

All pictures courtesy of Daily News BANGKOK - A chilling crime on the Prascha Chuen expressway as a 34-year-old man was shot dead at the wheel in front of his girlfriend after a road rage incident on December 23. The attack occurred after a Toyota Alphard reportedly cut in line at a toll booth before ambushing the victim's car and firing multiple shots, leading to an immediate police hunt. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage and working to trace the suspect’s vehicle. In the early hours, Police Lieutenant Colonel Noppadol Homsombat received reports of a shooting at the Si Rat Expressway toll booth entrance. Investigators found a Toyota Altis abandoned on the road, with Anuwat Yatniyom lifeless in the driver’s seat, his neck showing a gunshot wound. The victim’s girlfriend, Savitree, recounted how the incident unfolded as they approached home in Phetchakasem. Savitree detailed the terrifying sequence, where the white Toyota Alphard aggressively tried to cut in at the toll, prompting her boyfriend to slow down to avoid a collision. The altercation escalated after passing through the toll, with the Alphard waiting, then attacking on the Prascha Chuen bridge, firing four times before fleeing towards Mo Chit. Police have identified the suspect vehicle through CCTV and are coordinating efforts to track down the perpetrator swiftly. They emphasise the urgency of capturing those responsible in order to prevent further danger. The forensic teams continue to analyse evidence as the investigation intensifies. With public concern rising, this incident highlights ongoing issues of road safety and violence. Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward, underscoring their commitment to resolving the case efficiently. Key Takeaways A 34-year-old man was fatally shot in a road rage incident on December 23. The suspect's car, a white Toyota Alphard, was identified via CCTV. Police are actively searching for the gunman as investigations continue. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily News 2025-12-23

video screenshot In a bold move, Donald Trump announced plans for the U.S. Navy to construct a new line of 'Trump-class' warships, which he claims will be "100 times more powerful than any battleships ever built." The ships, part of a "Golden Fleet," are expected to replace the current Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, costing approximately 182 billion Thai baht each. The announcement, made while Trump holidayed in Palm Beach, Florida, includes plans for futuristic technology like directed energy lasers and railguns. This initiative marks a significant military escalation amid ongoing U.S. operations near Venezuela. While originally reported by The Wall Street Journal, the plan is perceived as a counter to China's influence, although Trump insists it targets "everybody." The 'Trump-class' also aligns with an aggressive American military presence in the Caribbean, where U.S. forces have been engaging in anti-drug operations involving small boats, leading to a controversial death toll exceeding 100. Expert opinions are mixed, with Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Navy Secretary John Phelan enthusiastically backing the plan. They have vowed to "make battleships great again," underscoring the aesthetic appeal and power of these new vessels. However, concerns arise over escalating tensions with Venezuela, as the U.S. continues to interdict and seize oil tankers linked to sanctioned organisations. Trump's ambiguity about whether to sell or add the seized oil to the U.S. Strategic Reserve exacerbates the uncertainty. Looking forward, the development of these formidable warships is likely to provoke responses from international players, notably China and Venezuela. The ambitious plan sets the stage for a modernised navy, reflecting a shift in U.S. naval strategy under Trump's guidance. The initiative, as emphasised during the president’s announcement, highlights his longstanding ambitions to revive U.S. battleship production. Key Takeaways: Trump launched plans for new 'Trump-class' warships, costing 182 billion Thai baht each. The move comes amid increased U.S. military operations near Venezuela. Experts and officials support the initiative, envisioning a more powerful naval fleet. Adapted by ASEAN Now from INDEPENDENT 2025-12-23

Medical Gear Scandal: Suspicion Surrounds 603 Million Baht Deal The Anti-Corruption Organisation of Thailand (ACT) has raised alarms over potential irregularities in the procurement of medical equipment by state hospitals, amounting to 603 million baht. Complaints have surfaced regarding the purchase of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) systems intended for neurological and psychiatric treatments. The e-bidding process conducted these deals for the 2026 fiscal year, revealing significant pricing discrepancies that prompted scrutiny. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382543-medical-gear-scandal-suspicion-surrounds-603-million-baht-deal/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The Anti-Corruption Organisation of Thailand (ACT) has raised alarms over potential irregularities in the procurement of medical equipment by state hospitals, amounting to 603 million baht. Complaints have surfaced regarding the purchase of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) systems intended for neurological and psychiatric treatments. The e-bidding process conducted these deals for the 2026 fiscal year, revealing significant pricing discrepancies that prompted scrutiny. ACT's investigation revealed that 27 hospitals initially announced intentions to buy TMS systems, with a set median price of 4.5 million baht per unit. While 12 hospitals proceeded with procurement plans, two opted out due to technical concerns. In most cases, winning bids closely matched the median price, except for Phrapokklao Hospital, which secured a notably lower contract at 1.95 million baht per unit. This substantial price variation has sparked questions about the authenticity of the median price, suggesting it may have been inflated beyond market norms. If proven, this could lead to a financial burden exceeding 340 million baht for the procured 134 units. Moreover, Khon Kaen Hospital cited discrepancies in its specifications and prioritised public interests by cancelling its procurement. Adding to this, Ramathibodi Hospital chose a different route by leasing a TMS system for five years at a cost of 3.64 million baht. On a related note, Sirindhorn Hospital acquired a peripheral nerve magnetic stimulation system for 750,000 baht, contrasting sharply with similar purchases by other public health hospitals in previous fiscal years, which reached up to 1.5 million baht, reported the Bangkok Post. Key Takeaways ACT highlights possible graft in medical equipment purchases for 603 million baht. Discrepancies in pricing and procurement processes raise red flags. Some hospitals cancel plans over technical concerns, opting for alternative solutions. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-23

Crackdown on Dodgy Goods: Customs Targets Online Sales The Thai Customs Department is clamping down on the sale of non-certified products through online platforms. In a bid to tackle the flow of illegal or substandard goods, the department has signed agreements with online sales platforms. Director-General Phantong Loykulnanta announced this initiative should help reduce the availability of such items. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382542-crackdown-on-dodgy-goods-customs-targets-online-sales/