Analysts Say KL Peace Accord Still Shapes Thai-Cambodia Border Relations Despite Suspension

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Nov. 28, 2025) — The Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord continues to shape Thailand’s approach to its border relationship with Cambodia despite Bangkok’s suspension of the agreement and what Cambodian analysts call baseless accusations over drones, landmines and military activity.

Chhot Bunthong, a philosophy professor and social analyst, said recent Thai claims — including allegations that Cambodia flew a drone over Thai territory in Pursat province and was responsible for a landmine incident — amounted to “provocation” and risked undermining efforts to implement the accord.

He argued Thailand has long used such tactics since the first ceasefire, creating scenarios and issuing accusations to gain leverage. Bunthong noted that although Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced Thailand’s termination of the accord, its provisions still influence Thai actions.

He urged full implementation of agreed principles to ensure stability, citing progress in temporarily demarcating border areas.

On Nov. 26, Foreign Ministry Permanent Secretary Eat Sophea reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to the July ceasefire and the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration, rejecting Thai allegations of new landmine planting.

She said the Nov. 10 explosion that injured Thai soldiers occurred inside Cambodian territory in a known mine-contaminated zone.

Geopolitical analyst Yang Peou added that Thailand resists third-party mediation, preferring direct bilateral talks to maximize military and economic advantage.

Cambodia’s Mine Action Authority also dismissed Thai media claims as “unsubstantiated” and outside agreed mechanisms.