Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul, Thailand’s Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, has firmly responded to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks regarding the ongoing conflict between Thailand and Cambodia. Anutin emphasized that Thailand was not the instigator of the conflict and suggested that Trump should direct his attention toward Cambodia to halt the hostilities.
According to Thai News Agency, Anutin’s comments came after Trump boasted about his ability to end the war between the two Southeast Asian nations. In his retort, Anutin questioned the use of violent weapons in the conflict and highlighted Cambodia’s alleged attacks on Thailand on the global stage. He also acknowledged the challenges Thailand faces in intercepting oil smuggling through the Chong Mek border crossing to Laos.
During a National Security Council (NSC) meeting, Anutin confirmed that NSC Secretary-General Chatchai Bangchawad would provide further details on the situation. He addressed the issue of oil tankers stranded at the Chong Mek border checkpoint in Ubon Ratchathani Province, clarifying that investigations revealed their destination was Laos, not Cambodia. Anutin asserted that Thailand could not prevent the export of oil to Laos.
Anutin further criticized Cambodia’s attempts to use international forums to accuse Thailand of using heavy weapons during border clashes. “Let’s look at the weapons. When Cambodia fired BM-21s towards Thailand, who was more powerful?” he questioned.
When prompted about how Thailand and Cambodia might react if Trump employed tariffs to pressure a ceasefire, Anutin refrained from providing a direct answer. He also dismissed the notion of international pressure, stating that no one was exerting such influence on the countries. When a reporter mentioned that the U.S. was using tariffs to press for a ceasefire, Anutin responded with uncertainty about the situation.
In response to Trump’s claim that he could stop the war, Anutin retorted, “Go ask Cambodia to stop firing at Thailand, because Thailand has never fired at Cambodia.”