As deadly border clashes between Cambodia and Thailand entered their third day, U.S. President Donald Trump took an aggressive diplomatic stance—leveraging trade threats to push for peace. Speaking from Scotland during a golf outing, Trump posted repeatedly on Truth Social, announcing calls with both Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand’s Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.
Trump warned that U.S. trade deals would be suspended if the fighting continued, stating, “We do not want to make any Deal, with either Country, if they are fighting.” He emphasized that both nations were eager to return to the “Trading Table,” but insisted that peace must come first.
The conflict, sparked by a landmine explosion that wounded five Thai soldiers, has escalated rapidly. At least 33 people have died, and over 168,000 civilians have been displaced across both countries. Artillery and rocket fire have devastated border villages, with Cambodia accusing Thailand of using cluster munitions, a claim Thailand has not denied.
Trump compared the situation to the India-Pakistan conflict, where he previously claimed trade leverage helped broker a ceasefire—though India later disputed that account. He reiterated, “If you stop it, we’ll do a trade. If you don’t stop it, we’re not going to do any trade”.
Both Cambodia and Thailand are already reeling from Trump’s recent 36% reciprocal tariffs, set to take effect August. These tariffs target key exports, including garments and electronics, threatening economic stability in both nations.
Thailand responded by agreeing “in principle” to a ceasefire, but demanded proof of Cambodia’s sincerity. Cambodia, meanwhile, accused Thailand of unlawful aggression and called for international condemnation. ASEAN and the UN Security Council have urged both sides to de-escalate, with Malaysia proposing a ceasefire framework that’s under review.
Trump’s intervention has drawn mixed reactions. Supporters praise his bold use of economic pressure, while critics warn that weaponizing trade could undermine diplomatic credibility. Still, Trump remains confident: “Ceasefire, Peace, and Prosperity seems to be a natural. We will soon see!”
