Trump: 'historic' peace agreement signed between Cambodia and Thailand

Thailand and Cambodia signed in Malaysia an extension of the ceasefire agreement that in July had ended five days of intense clashes along the border, a conflict that had claimed more than 40 lives and displaced hundreds of thousands. The mediation, led by US President Donald Trump together with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Chinese negotiators, played a decisive role in the de-escalation of the crisis.

As a first step of the agreement, Thailand will release 18 Cambodian prisoners, while Cambodia will begin the withdrawal of heavy artillery from the border areas. Regional observers will monitor the situation to ensure compliance with the ceasefire and the clearance of mines in the disputed areas.

The July conflict, one of the worst between the two countries in recent decades, had seen the re-emergence of conflicting territorial claims between Phnom Penh and Bangkok. The initial truce, signed on 28 July, had been facilitated by US economic pressure: Trump had threatened to suspend bilateral trade agreements if the fighting did not end.

"It is a monumental step towards peace," Trump commented during the signing ceremony, calling the understanding "historic". At the same time, the US president signed a number of separate economic agreements with Cambodia and Thailand, strengthening his influence in the region.

The European Union welcomed the agreement. The High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, emphasised that the agreement is an 'important milestone for peace' and that Brussels is ready to support its implementation, including by facilitating the clearance of mines along the border.