US Urges Thailand to Resume Implementation of Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 19, 2025) — U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has urged Thailand to resume implementation of the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord, expressing concern over escalating violence along the Cambodia–Thailand border.

Rubio spoke by phone with Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow, stressing the urgent need to reduce tensions and calling on Bangkok to take concrete steps toward de-escalation.

He said Thailand should recommit to the peace framework signed in October under U.S. auspices in Malaysia.

Thailand suspended implementation of the accord in November, citing a landmine explosion that injured soldiers near Sisaket province. Cambodian officials said they remained committed to the deal, which was intended to end clashes that left more than 40 dead in July.

Fighting reignited Dec. 7, with Cambodia accusing Thai forces of violating its territory, while Thailand claimed self-defense. On Dec. 12, U.S. President Donald Trump announced both sides had agreed to halt hostilities, though Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul later denied a ceasefire was in place.

China has also stepped up mediation. On Dec. 18, Foreign Minister Wang Yi held separate calls with Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn and Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak, urging both sides to cease fire, minimize losses and rebuild trust.

As of Dec. 19, Cambodia’s Interior Ministry reported 18 civilian deaths, 79 injuries and nearly 500,000 displaced across several provinces. Women and children account for the majority of those uprooted.