🗓️ Sunday, December 28th, 2025
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Thailand Reports Cambodia Breached Ceasefire After Drone Incursions

What Happened

Thailand reports Cambodia breached a newly signed ceasefire after more than 250 drones were detected flying from the Cambodian side into Thai territory on Sunday night. The incident occurred just one day after both countries agreed to stop fighting along the border.

Background: The Ceasefire

Thailand and Cambodia agreed to an immediate ceasefire on Saturday to end renewed border clashes that killed dozens of people and displaced more than one million civilians.

The agreement included halting all fighting, freezing troop movements, cooperating on de-mining and cybercrime, allowing civilians to return home, and the release of 18 Cambodian soldiers captured by Thailand in July, provided the ceasefire held.

Thailand’s Statement

According to the Thai army, more than 250 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) crossed into Thai airspace from Cambodia and were detected in multiple border areas. The military described the activity as provocative, a breach of ceasefire measures, and inconsistent with agreements reached at the General Border Committee meeting.

The army said the drone activity threatens the safety of soldiers and civilians along the border and stated that Thailand may reconsider the release of the 18 Cambodian soldiers depending on how the situation develops.

Cambodia’s Response

Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn described the drone issue as minor, saying it involved drone sightings along the border and that both sides had agreed to investigate and resolve the matter.

Cambodia’s Defence Ministry later denied launching any drones, stating that drone flights had been banned by border authorities and that no Cambodian drones crossed into Thailand.

Thailand’s Position

Thailand maintained that the drone activity reflects continued hostile behaviour and undermines efforts to reduce tensions. The army said it would act as necessary to protect national security and civilians living near the border.

Wider Context

Thailand and Cambodia share an 800-kilometre border, with long-standing territorial disputes linked to colonial-era border demarcations and competing claims over historic temple sites. Previous ceasefires brokered by international partners have collapsed in the past.

Diplomatic Efforts

Talks hosted by China concluded this week, with Thailand, Cambodia, and China agreeing to work toward rebuilding trust, restoring normal relations, and maintaining regional stability. Cambodia has invited Thailand to another border meeting in early January to continue border demarcation discussions.

Summary

Thailand says Cambodia violated the ceasefire through large-scale drone incursions, while Cambodia denies the claim and downplays the incident. The ceasefire remains fragile, with military readiness and diplomatic efforts continuing at the same time.