Bangkok: Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul addressed recent statements made by U.S. President Donald Trump, who claimed he could end the ongoing conflict between Thailand and Cambodia. Anutin, speaking after a National Security Council (NSC) meeting, emphasized that NSC Secretary-General Chatchai Bangchawad would provide further details on the matter.

According to Thai News Agency, Anutin discussed the situation concerning oil tankers stranded at the Chong Mek border checkpoint in Sirindhorn District, Ubon Ratchathani Province. He clarified that investigations confirmed the tankers’ final destination was Laos, not Cambodia. Anutin stated that since the exports were destined for Laos, Thailand could not legally halt them.

In response to Cambodia’s allegations on the international stage that Thailand used heavy weaponry in border skirmishes, Anutin questioned the claims, stating, “Let’s look at the weapons. When Cambodia fired BM-21s towards Thailand, who was more powerful?”

When queried about how Thailand and Cambodia would handle potential U.S. tariff pressures aimed at enforcing a ceasefire, Anutin declined to comment. He was further asked if international pressure, specifically from the U.S., would impede a ceasefire. Anutin appeared unconcerned, questioning the existence of such pressure and expressing unawareness of any American influence.

Addressing Trump’s assertion that he could halt the conflict, Anutin retorted, “Go ask Cambodia to stop firing at Thailand, because Thailand has never fired at Cambodia.” The Prime Minister also refrained from commenting on the Chinese Foreign Minister’s call for a ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia.