Thai - Cambodia Conflict Cambodians Ask President Trump to Free Soldiers Held by Thailand

[webfact]

Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World

 

Cambodian protesters in Siem Reap province made a dramatic appeal, urging US President Donald Trump to intervene in the release of 18 Cambodian soldiers held by the Thai army. Photos from Fresh News show waves of Cambodians, including monks and teachers, carrying placards with pleas for Trump's help.

 

Thai forces captured the soldiers last month in Si Sa Ket province after a failed attempt to seize the Sam Tae area. The Thai army claims they are treating the soldiers who peacefully surrendered in accordance with international standards. However, Cambodia accuses Thailand of kidnapping and mistreating the group.

 

Phnom Penh has repeatedly pushed for their return, while Thailand maintains they are prisoners of war and will be sent home once tensions calm. The Thai army assures the captives are receiving proper care, including medical attention, and representatives from the Red Cross and ASEAN countries have verified their conditions, reported Thai PBS World.

 

The Siem Reap rally called for action and expressed gratitude to Trump for facilitating a ceasefire between the nations in July, after deadly border clashes. Trump had asserted that the US would not negotiate tariffs while violence persisted, leading to a ceasefire brokered in Malaysia under ASEAN's guidance.

 

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has even suggested that Donald Trump should receive a Nobel Peace Prize for his role in the ceasefire. The protesters' placards echoed this sentiment, supporting the nomination of Trump for his diplomatic efforts.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from [source] 2025-08-25

 

[Jone500]

The US only acts in its own interests, not out of charity. So what does this country have that would make Trump interested, or make it lower its pride just to let American troops set up a base there?