Anutin Holds Border Talks With Army Chief

Caretaker Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Thursday summoned the Army Chief of Staff for discussions on border readiness, stressing that military equipment must be fully prepared despite the government’s caretaker status. He declined to answer whether he would personally oversee the Defence Ministry.

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Speaking at 12:15 at Government House after returning from lunch, Mr Anutin, who also serves as interior minister, referred to his earlier meeting at Thai Khu Fah Building with Gen Chaiyapruek Duangprapat, the Army Chief of Staff. He said the talks focused on overall readiness along all border areas, not only the frontier with Cambodia.

Asked whether any particular border area was of greatest concern, Mr Anutin said none at present. He explained that the meeting was intended to reaffirm preparedness, particularly as the central budget now has only limited funds remaining. Authorities were also assessing whether any unexpected situations could arise.

“If a situation occurs, how will we proceed, or will we need to earmark certain funds during the caretaker period? We must be prepared in every respect,” he said.

When questioned about whether procurement of weapons and military equipment could continue under a caretaker government, the prime minister said it could. Any deficiencies, he added, could be covered under the military’s regular budget to ensure full readiness.

Mr Anutin did not respond directly when asked whether the Defence portfolio would be suitable for him to oversee personally. Instead, he remarked that a snack he was eating was “not too sweet” before walking away.

Thailand is currently under a caretaker administration, limiting certain government functions, particularly major spending decisions. Mr Anutin’s comments suggest that defence preparedness remains a priority despite budget constraints.

The meeting with Gen Chaiyapruek Duangprapat comes amid broader attention to border security, including the frontier with Cambodia, although no specific threat was identified. The prime minister indicated that the review was precautionary rather than a response to any immediate incident.

Khaosod reported that the government is expected to continue monitoring border conditions while ensuring funding mechanisms are in place should circumstances change. Any further decisions on defence oversight or portfolio responsibilities remain unconfirmed.

Key Takeaways

• Anutin met Gen Chaiyapruek Duangprapat on 26 February 2026 to review border readiness.

• He said military procurement can proceed and shortfalls can be covered by the regular budget.

• He declined to answer whether he would personally oversee the Defence Ministry.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 27 Feb 2026

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