Thailand Says It Has Controlled Almost All Targets Along Thai-Cambodian Border; Two Countries to Hold Talks in Kuala Lumpur on Monday

(Bangkok, 22nd) Thai Prime Minister Anutin said that the Thai Armed Forces have taken control of almost all targets in the conflict zones along the Thai-Cambodian border, forcing Cambodian troops to retreat.

In an interview on Sunday (December 21), Anutin stated that he has instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to clarify the Thai position at the ASEAN Special Foreign Ministers' Meeting on Monday (22nd): Thailand is not the party that has breached agreements or acted as an aggressor, and all actions are aimed at safeguarding national sovereignty and security; Thailand has always adhered to the principles of international law, and strives to limit losses without further escalating the conflict.

Nearly two weeks after the Thai-Cambodian border conflict reignited, there is still no sign of easing. At a press conference on Sunday, Thai Ministry of Defense spokesperson Surasan said that the conflict has resulted in 34 Thai civilian deaths and the evacuation of 213,000 people.
Cambodia, on the other hand, claims that Thai aggression has caused 19 civilian deaths, 79 injuries, and left 518,000 people displaced. In addition, over a hundred civilian facilities, historical sites, and religious buildings have been destroyed.

The representatives of Thailand and Cambodia will hold talks at the ASEAN Special Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Kuala Lumpur on Monday. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar again spoke separately with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Anutin, urging both sides to use this opportunity to establish a ceasefire.
Anwar posted on Facebook on Sunday that the Foreign Ministers' Meeting is the most appropriate platform for Thailand and Cambodia to engage in open negotiations, resolve differences peacefully, and reach a fair and lasting solution.

"I emphasize that Cambodia and Thailand must have dialogue, and in a spirit of wisdom and mutual respect, put an end to tensions and maintain peace and stability in the region."

Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Maradi reiterated on Sunday the previously stated negotiating conditions, including demanding that Phnom Penh initiate a ceasefire and cooperate with demining efforts along the border. She told reporters that these conditions "will guide the direction of our negotiations in Kuala Lumpur tomorrow."

The Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the purpose of this meeting is to restore "peace, stability, and good-neighborly relations", adding that Phnom Penh will "reaffirm its firm position to resolve differences and disputes through all peaceful means, dialogue, and diplomatic channels."

On Sunday, the Thai military also reported that a Marine Corps member was severely injured after stepping on a landmine while on duty in the border area of Trat province. The National News quoted the Thai Navy as saying that the mine was planted by the Cambodian military before their withdrawal.

Vice spokesperson for the Thai Navy, Koracha, said: "This Marine lost his right foot. We condemn Cambodia for lacking conscience and responsibility, and for seriously violating human rights."