Top US State Department official for East Asia Michael DeSombre (L) shakes hands with Thai Foreign Ministry spokesman Sihasak Phuangketkeow (R).

The United States unveiled a substantial aid package on Friday, committing approximately 1.55 billion Thai baht to strengthen a fragile ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia. Michael DeSombre, a senior official in charge of East Asian affairs, made the announcement during his diplomatic visit to the region. The initiative aligns with the efforts of US president Donald Trump to promote the ceasefire as a significant diplomatic success.

The US will allocate around 690 million baht to combat the rising issues of drug trafficking and cybercrime in Cambodia. Additionally, 518 million baht will support those displaced by recent hostilities, with a further 345 million baht dedicated to demining operations. DeSombre emphasised the US's commitment to supporting both governments in implementing the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accords to restore peace and stability across the region.

This peace accord, signed in October during Trump's presence in Malaysia, aimed to mitigate the escalating tension over a longstanding border dispute between the two nations. Although a truce was agreed upon on December 27 after renewed clashes, accusations of ceasefire violations continue. Cambodia has urged Thailand to withdraw its military presence from border zones claimed by Phnom Penh as their own.

The conflict traces back to disagreements over colonial-era border demarcations, involving territorial claims and disputes over ancient temple sites. Trump has cited resolving this conflict among his achievements, linking it to other international peace efforts he claims to have facilitated. Critically, the ceasefire comes after the US administration heavily reduced foreign aid, focusing instead on projects aligned with US strategic interests, reported AFP.

Key Takeaways

• The US commits roughly 1.55 billion Thai baht to support the Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire.

• Aid includes support for drug trafficking prevention, displacement, and demining.

• Conflict stems from colonial-era border disputes, with recent truce still under strain.

  

Adapted by ASEAN Now from AFP via Thai PBS WORLD 2026-01-10

 

 

How much of the US$45 million will NOT end up in the hands/pockets/bank accounts of military personnel?

If the funds were really used for demining it would be money well spent, but money well spent is an oxymoron in this part of the world.

Thought the US had already given 89 million baht to both sides for the ceasefire?

2 hours ago, phil2407 said:

Thought the US had already given 89 million baht to both sides for the ceasefire?

new mia nois and mercedes for all?