Border tensions rise as Thailand and Cambodia reinforce troops after May 28 clash
The two governments have issued statements committing to dialogue following a brief skirmish on May 28 that resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier
Thailand has reinforced its military presence along a disputed border with Cambodia, following an increase in troops on the other side, Thailand’s defence minister said on Saturday, as tensions simmer following a deadly clash.
For days, the two Southeast Asian governments have exchanged carefully worded statements committing to dialogue after a brief skirmish in an unmarked border area on May 28, in which a Cambodian soldier was killed.
But Phumtham Wechayachai, who also serves as Thailand’s deputy prime minister, said that during bilateral talks held on Thursday, Cambodia had rejected proposals that could have led to a de-escalation.
“Furthermore, there has been a reinforcement of military presence, which has exacerbated tensions along the border,” Phumtham said in a statement.
“Consequently, the Royal Thai Government has deemed it necessary to implement additional measures and to reinforce our military posture accordingly.”
He did not provide details on the extent of reinforcements by either side.