Thai Defense Chief Cautious Over Cambodian Actions Amid Border Tensions

Bangkok: The Chief of Defence Forces remains unconvinced by Cambodia, stating that their behavior will be the deciding factor. The Chief of the Joint Staff of the Royal Thai Armed Forces remains uneasy about Cambodia's actions but doesn't want the video of Cambodian soldiers harassing those on the front lines to be viewed as a signal for a third round of fighting. He considers the reinforcement of bunkers and border patrol as normal. He stated that news of signals for negotiations through General Tea Banh requires further investigation, emphasizing that behavior will be the deciding factor.

According to Thai News Agency, General Ukrit Boontanon, Supreme Commander of the Royal Thai Armed Forces, commented on the situation on the Thai-Cambodian border, stating that, in principle, military relations should be suspended, including military assistance and other forms of cooperation. He responded that the time is not right yet. He added that they should reconsider when the time is appropriate. He acknowledged the current situation and that a temporary break is possible but emphasized that it doesn't mean a prolonged break. He stressed that it depends on the attitudes and behavior of both sides. If there is good communication, genuine intention, and cooperation to resolve the issues, things will improve. He concluded that both sides need to applaud.

Regarding the current behavior, General Ukrit said that it has improved, but they still need to observe closely and not trust anything too quickly. Meanwhile, it seems there are more videos of Cambodian soldiers provoking and disturbing Thai front lines. Many see this as a sign of a third escalation, right? General Ukrit said, "Please don't look at it that way. You have to understand that after the ceasefire, we started deploying troops and setting up obstacles for self-defense. Both sides are acting independently. When things stabilized, they became more confident, started coming closer, observing, studying, and inspecting, which is normal behavior for the escalation of conflict among front-line troops. But during these incidents, no one is engaging in any behavior to provoke or anger or panic. Please don't get angry or panicked; that's acceptable."

Regarding the reinforcement of bunkers, General Ukrit said, "Everyone did it. We did it. They did it." Regarding fake news and misinformation, have any specific instructions been given? General Ukrit acknowledged that discussions have been held within the press team and all relevant departments. Currently, the dimensions of relations, diplomacy, information, military, and economics are progressing simultaneously. Preparations are underway for the future, with discussions held at the Thai military level across all units regarding future proposals. For now, the situation is being monitored and maintained at a level that is stable, but based on the principle that we are prepared for all scenarios.

Regarding the report that Cambodian Defense Minister General Tea Banh contacted Thailand requesting negotiations because Cambodia wants to end the ceasefire, General Ukrit said that the details and demeanor must be considered. Beyond the signals and written communication, it is crucial to examine their behavior and circumstances. A comprehensive assessment is necessary before concluding what to believe, as everything is based on assumptions. We cannot witness the exact situation firsthand. We must consider all factors, formulate hypotheses, and if they are correct, prepare accordingly. If they are wrong, adjustments must be made. Therefore, we must be prepared for all scenarios.

Regarding the news reports that Cambodian troops are adjusting their positions closer to the border, General Ukrit stated that he doesn't view it as a troop adjustment, but rather a change in behavior. After seeing the Thai troop deployment, they are gradually developing their military operations on the front lines, adapting to the Thai deployment. They see how we are, so they come to observe and make adjustments.