Accusations of Sovereignty Breach
Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defence accused Thai forces of violating its territory by digging trenches and deploying troops along the Preah Vihear and Oddar Meanchey borders, as reported on June 18, 2025. The allegations, published in the Khmer Times, claimed Thailand disregarded the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU 2000), escalating tensions and threatening regional peace. Thailand’s military swiftly denied these charges, asserting all actions occurred within its borders.
Thai Forces Defend Actions
Operations Within Sovereign Territory
Rear Adm Surasant Kongsiri, deputy spokesman for the Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTAF), emphasized that all military activities adhered to international protocols and the MoU 2000. He clarified that infrastructure development, drone flights, and troop movements cited by Cambodia took place on Thai soil. These measures, including trench digging and weapon deployments, were standard practices to bolster border security, not incursions into Cambodian territory.
Routine Military Enhancements
Strengthening Border Defenses
The RTAF described the accused activities as routine military operations aimed at improving security infrastructure. Conducted in areas like Sa Kaeo and Ubon Ratchathani, these efforts included upgrading facilities and mobilizing support units, aligning with annual exercises like those held at U-Tapao air base on June 18, 2025. Such developments, Surasant noted, are essential for maintaining national sovereignty and do not violate bilateral agreements.
Cambodia’s Import Ban Impact
Thai Commerce Ministry Responds
Cambodia’s retaliatory ban on Thai agricultural imports has disrupted cross-border trade, prompting Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce to mitigate economic fallout. Surasant stated that the ministry is redirecting affected products, such as rice and fruit, to local supermarket chains to stabilize markets. This response aims to cushion farmers in border provinces like Surin and Si Sa Ket, where exports to Cambodia typically exceed 10 billion baht annually.
Diplomatic Efforts to Ensure Safety
Thai Embassy Monitors Citizens
The Thai embassy in Phnom Penh is actively engaging with Thai nationals in Cambodia to safeguard their well-being amid rising tensions. Regular updates and safety advisories are provided to residents, particularly in border towns like Poipet. Surasant underscored the embassy’s role in maintaining open communication, ensuring that Thai citizens feel secure despite Cambodia’s allegations and trade restrictions.
Context of Ongoing Disputes
Historical Border Frictions Persist
The accusations reflect longstanding disputes over the Thai-Cambodian border, notably around Preah Vihear, a UNESCO site claimed by both nations. Despite the MoU 2000 facilitating joint boundary demarcation, unresolved sections fuel periodic flare-ups. Cambodia’s recent claims follow a May 2025 skirmish in Chong Bok, highlighting the need for diplomatic progress through the Joint Boundary Commission to prevent escalation and restore trust.
Path Toward De-escalation
Dialogue to Ease Tensions
Thailand’s firm denial of incursions signals its commitment to sovereignty while urging dialogue to resolve misunderstandings. The RTAF’s adherence to international norms, coupled with the Commerce Ministry’s trade mitigation and embassy support, demonstrates a multi-faceted approach. As both nations navigate this dispute, renewed bilateral talks, potentially mediated by ASEAN, could stabilize relations and prevent further economic or security disruptions.
