Cambodian Community Urges U.S. Action as Thailand Accused of Using American Weapons in Ceasefire Violations

WASHINGTON (Dec. 16, 2025) — Cambodian community representatives worldwide have submitted an urgent appeal to President Donald Trump and senior U.S. officials, calling for immediate action amid allegations that Thailand violated a ceasefire agreement and used American-supplied military equipment in attacks inside Cambodian territory.

The petition, delivered Tuesday on behalf of Cambodians globally, urges Washington to uphold international law, protect civilians and demand the release of 18 Cambodian soldiers detained by the Thai military. It also calls on the United States to suspend military cooperation with Thailand until it complies with ceasefire commitments and humanitarian law.

Cambodia and Thailand signed a ceasefire Oct. 26 in Kuala Lumpur, witnessed by Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. According to the appeal, Thailand breached the accord Dec. 7 by launching renewed military operations across the border. Despite a renewed ceasefire initiative announced Dec. 12, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul publicly rejected the truce and vowed to continue military action.

The petition alleges Thai forces used U.S.-supplied F-16 fighter jets in offensive operations deep inside Cambodian territory, including airstrikes in Siem Reap province — more than 70 kilometers from the border — raising concerns over possible violations of U.S. arms end-use restrictions, the Leahy Law and international humanitarian conventions.

“What began as a border dispute has escalated into a direct invasion of Cambodian sovereignty,” the petition states, warning that the use of American weapons in such operations places legal and moral responsibility on Washington.

The appeal also highlights the continued detention of 18 Cambodian soldiers captured July 29, hours after an earlier ceasefire took effect. The petition argues their detention violates the Third Geneva Convention and the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord, which requires the prompt release of prisoners of war following the cessation of hostilities.

Cambodian authorities report at least 15 civilian deaths, more than 70 injuries, the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people and the closure of more than 900 schools. Damage has also been reported to hospitals, pagodas and areas near UNESCO World Heritage sites.

The Cambodian community is urging the United States to press Thailand to cease military operations, secure the release of detained soldiers, support humanitarian assistance for displaced civilians and hold all parties accountable under international law.

“When crises erupt, the world looks to the United States for leadership,” the petition concludes. “Ensuring that U.S. weapons are not used unlawfully would reaffirm America’s commitment to international law and responsible global leadership.”