Michael DeSombre, a senior US State Department official for East Asia, visited Thailand and Cambodia on 9/1 to discuss measures to strengthen the ceasefire agreement between the two nations.

DeSombre announced that the US would provide 20 million USD to Cambodia and Thailand to combat drug trafficking and online fraud, issues of growing concern in Cambodia.

Washington will also allocate 15 million USD to support displaced persons in both countries affected by the fighting. An additional 10 million USD will be spent by the US on landmine clearance in the region.

“The US will continue to support the governments of Cambodia and Thailand as they implement the Kuala Lumpur Peace Agreement and pave the way for peace, prosperity, and stability for their people and the region,” DeSombre stated.

Michael DeSombre in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in 10/2025. Photo: *Reuters*

Fighting between Cambodia and Thailand reignited in early 12/2025, killing at least 55 people and displacing over 900,000 residents in both countries.

Representatives from the Cambodia - Thailand Joint Border Committee (GBC) signed a ceasefire agreement on 27/12/2025. Both sides agreed to pursue peace, stability, and security for residents along the border area, committing to no unprovoked firing, no troop advances, and no deployment or movement of forces close to the other side's positions.

However, on the morning of 6/1, Thailand accused a mortar shell from Cambodia of landing on its territory, injuring a soldier. Cambodia explained the incident as an accident, while Thailand declared its readiness to take responsive measures.

Ngoc Anh (According to AFP, Reuters)