Picture courtesy of Khaosod

Thailand’s army chief told a senior United States official that Cambodia initiated recent tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border, rejecting claims that Thailand was the aggressor. The comments were made during a high-level meeting in Bangkok focused on security cooperation and regional stability. The Thai army said the discussion underscored Thailand’s commitment to peace while addressing what it described as misinformation surrounding the dispute.

The meeting took place on Friday 10 January, at army headquarters between Army commander Gen. Pana Klaewplodthuk and Michael George DeSombre, the U.S. assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific affairs. U.S. Ambassador to Thailand Sean Kotaro O’Neill also attended the talks. The discussions covered military cooperation, bilateral security ties and the evolving border situation with Cambodia.

According to the Thai army, Gen. Pana said Cambodia was the first to escalate the conflict along the border. He stated that Cambodia had circulated information inconsistent with the facts, including accusations that Thailand had invaded Cambodian territory. The Thai side maintained that it has acted in line with established agreements and international norms.

Gen. Pana reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to peaceful coexistence and adherence to the peace declaration. He said Bangkok is relying on bilateral mechanisms to reduce tensions and foster mutual understanding with Cambodia. The Thai army said this approach reflects its preference for dialogue and existing frameworks rather than confrontation.

The Thai army also said Thailand had taken humanitarian steps during the conflict. Gen. Pana told the U.S. officials that Thailand treated 18 Cambodian prisoners in accordance with humanitarian principles. He added that they were released appropriately and in line with international standards.

The U.S. side thanked Thailand for upholding existing agreements, according to the Thai army’s statement. U.S. officials acknowledged the Thai army’s role in supporting long-term regional stability. Both sides agreed that continued cooperation is vital to preventing further escalation.

The talks also highlighted ongoing military collaboration. Both sides agreed that joint military exercises Cobra Gold and Balance Torch remain important symbols of cooperation and deterrence in the region. They discussed cooperation in electronic warfare technology, drone and counter-drone systems, intelligence sharing and supporting weapons.

Khoasod reported that Thailand additionally raised concerns about developments in the South China Sea. The Thai army said it hopes for cooperation among all parties to ensure long-term regional stability. It reiterated its commitment to strengthening partnerships and preparing to respond to threats to national sovereignty.

Key Takeaways

• Thailand’s army chief told U.S. officials that Cambodia initiated the latest border tensions.

• Thailand said it handled 18 Cambodian prisoners under humanitarian and international standards.

• Both sides reaffirmed the importance of military cooperation and joint exercises for regional stability.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod 2026-01-10

 

 

Of course it always them never me or us....for everything and everywhere from outside the border... We are the good ones, they are the bad ones..

Cambodia being the aggressor and Thailand reacting to their escalation is backed up by foreign experts.

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/29/world/asia/thailand-cambodia-china-weapons.html