BANGKOK, July 27, 2025 — Acting Prime Minister of Thailand, Phumtham Wechayachai, held a crucial phone conversation with former U.S. President Donald Trump amid growing international concern over the border conflict with Cambodia. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, President Trump urged both sides to immediately agree to a ceasefire. The Acting Prime Minister welcomed Trump’s involvement, expressing appreciation for his concern and stating Thailand’s willingness, in principle, to pursue a ceasefire — provided Cambodia demonstrates “sincere intention” to de-escalate.

Phumtham emphasized the importance of dialogue and formally requested President Trump to convey to Cambodian authorities Thailand’s readiness to hold urgent bilateral talks aimed at establishing procedures for a ceasefire and achieving lasting peace.

This diplomatic engagement follows strong statements made earlier today by Prime Minister and Culture Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who is currently suspended from premiership but remains active in overseeing the crisis. Paetongtarn accused Cambodia of committing a “severe war crime” by initiating armed aggression on July 24th. She stated that Cambodian forces opened fire on Thai civilian communities using artillery, resulting in multiple casualties — including children — which she described as a flagrant violation of international and humanitarian law.

Thailand, she confirmed, responded with targeted F-16 airstrikes, asserting the military action was both necessary and proportional. She cited foreign media reports suggesting premeditation by Cambodia, noting that Cambodian schools remained closed on the day of the assault — a move she argued hints at prior knowledge of the attacks.

In a significant revelation, the Prime Minister linked Cambodia’s aggression to Thailand’s recent crackdown on transnational call center scams, particularly those operating along the borders with Laos and Myanmar. Paetongtarn revealed that Cambodia had voiced dissatisfaction after being excluded from a trilateral anti-scam initiative. She raised suspicions that the crackdown may have disrupted powerful vested interests in Cambodia, potentially motivating the conflict.

Rejecting claims that the conflict stems from a political rivalry between elites, she stated unequivocally: "Any responsible government would have had to take on the scam networks."

Reaffirming Thailand’s commitment to defending its sovereignty, Paetongtarn stressed that the military and diplomatic apparatus are operating in full coordination. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reportedly presented the international community with detailed evidence of Cambodia’s violations, including the alleged use of newly planted landmines — a breach of humanitarian principles.

In her capacity as Culture Minister, Paetongtarn expressed deep gratitude to Their Majesties the King and Queen for extending Royal Patronage to victims. The Ministry of Culture will oversee royally-sponsored funerals, initiate mental health recovery programs, and assess damage to cultural heritage sites in the conflict zone.

Despite her suspension, Paetongtarn confirmed she remains fully engaged and plans to visit affected border areas soon to meet with victims and oversee state response efforts.

As tensions persist, international calls for restraint and diplomacy continue to grow, with Thailand signaling openness to peaceful resolution — but only if Cambodia matches words with verifiable actions.