U.S. Urges Cambodia, Thailand to Uphold Peace Deal as Civilian Casualties Mount

SIEM REAP, Cambodia (Dec. 9, 2025) — The United States has urged Cambodia and Thailand to fully honor the Kuala Lumpur Peace Agreement, voicing concern over renewed cross border attacks that have left civilians dead and injured.

The appeal came during the celebration of the 75th anniversary of Cambodia–U.S. friendship at the historic Kravan Temple in Siem Reap.

U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Bridgette Walker said Washington is “deeply concerned” by reports of Thai military strikes on Cambodian territory. She offered condolences to affected communities and stressed that both governments must “respect and implement the Kuala Lumpur Peace Agreement witnessed by President Donald Trump on Oct. 26, 2025.”

Cambodian officials have reported at least seven civilians killed and 20 seriously injured in recent clashes, with thousands of families displaced and schools closed along the border. Authorities said artillery fire and drone strikes have damaged homes, roads and cultural heritage sites, raising fears of further escalation.

Walker underscored the breadth of U.S.–Cambodia cooperation over the past 75 years, spanning public health, education, economic growth, investment, military ties and cultural preservation.

Minister of Culture and Fine Arts Phoeurng Sackona echoed the importance of the bilateral relationship, praising the United States as a long standing partner in safeguarding Cambodia’s heritage. She cited U.S. support through the World Monuments Fund in restoring sites including Phnom Bakheng, Preah Khan and Ta Som.

On the border conflict, Sackona thanked President Donald J. Trump for encouraging diplomatic dialogue between Cambodia and Thailand, which led to the peace agreement now under strain.