In Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand, local sources report that despite ongoing diplomatic talks aimed at reinforcing a ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia, both countries are still increasing their military presence near their disputed border. These meetings, taking place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, involve both countries’ officials.
Malaysia played a crucial role in mediating a truce between the two nations on July 28, which followed five days of intense clashes resulting in casualties and over 260,000 displaced individuals. Despite this, accusations of ceasefire violations by both sides continue.
The four-day summit in Kuala Lumpur, concluding with a meeting between senior defense officials from Thailand and Cambodia, signifies a push toward stability. Observers from Malaysia, China, and the United States are also in attendance to monitor these discussions.
Parliament member Wasawat Puangpornsri, who represents a border constituency in Ubon Ratchathani, reports tense military standoffs, with Thai and Cambodian troops stationed close to each other. The area remains unsafe, with ongoing inspections of damaged infrastructure to assess compensation for affected civilians.
Residents remain cautious, recalling prior incidents in May that strained relations and prefigured the July clashes. The conflict saw both sides blaming each other for initiating violence, with devastating effects on civilian areas and populated regions.
After the ceasefire, although no further active violence has been recorded, a climate of mistrust persists. This prevents displaced residents from returning home, as seen in Ubon Ratchathani where evacuees, including children, continue their lives in uncertainty.
Phian Somsri, a local displaced by the conflict, expressed hopes for peace and stability, reflecting the widely shared desire among the affected population for a resolution that would allow them to return to their communities without fear of further conflict.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/8/7/locals-pray-for-peace-as-thailand-cambodia-tensions-continue-despite-talks?traffic_source=rss
