Thailand and Cambodia to Hold Talks Amid Deadly Border Conflict

Thailand and Cambodia are preparing for talks following several days of deadly border clashes. The fighting has resulted in at least 35 fatalities and raised concerns about a potential wider conflict.

Negotiations are scheduled to take place on Monday afternoon in Malaysia. Both nations have accused each other of initiating fresh artillery strikes in disputed areas, even as they prepare to meet.

The Thai negotiating team will be led by Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, according to a government announcement. Malaysia, which holds the chair of the ASEAN regional cooperation forum, has confirmed that Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet will also be present.

The United States is also involved in the peace efforts. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that State Department officials are in Malaysia to assist with the talks. President Donald Trump has indicated he spoke with both leaders and believes they are seeking a resolution.

Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have increased since a border skirmish in late May that resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier. The situation has escalated into a full-blown diplomatic crisis, leading to the reinforcement of border troops and threatening the stability of Thailand's government.

The recent fighting, which began on Thursday, has become the most severe conflict between the two Southeast Asian neighbors in over a decade. The death toll has surpassed 35, including civilians from both countries. Over 200,000 people have been evacuated from border regions.

Despite the planned talks, both sides have continued to accuse each other of attacks. Cambodia's Defence Ministry reported Thai shelling and ground assaults along the border, including targeting historic temple complexes. The Thai army, in turn, accused Cambodian forces of firing shots into several areas, including near civilian homes.

Pope Leo XIV expressed prayers for those affected by the conflict, specifically mentioning the children and displaced families impacted by the border clashes.