The Royal Thai Army (RTA) today strongly condemns the actions of Cambodian forces for breaching the ceasefire agreement signed just days ago on December 27, 2025. This blatant violation threatens the fragile peace established after months of intense border clashes and undermines ongoing efforts to restore stability along the Thailand-Cambodia border.
The ceasefire, agreed upon by Thai Defence Minister Nattaphon Narkphanit and Cambodian Defence Minister Tea Seiha, was intended to halt hostilities that have plagued the region since May 2025. The agreement explicitly calls for an immediate cessation of fire, a freeze on troop movements, cooperation on demining operations, and joint efforts to combat cross border cybercrime.
It followed weeks of renewed fighting in December, which resulted in significant casualties, including at least 45 Thai civilians and 26 soldiers, as well as widespread displacement of over a million people on both sides.
However, on the evening of December 28, 2025, mere hours after the truce took effect Thai radar systems detected more than 250 drones originating from Cambodian territory crossing into Thai airspace.
These unmanned aerial vehicles were observed flying over sensitive border areas in provinces such as Sisaket and Preah Vihear, in direct contravention of the agreement's provisions against military airspace violations. The RTA views this as a deliberate provocation that endangers civilian lives and escalates tensions unnecessarily.
"This incursion is not only a violation of the spirit and letter of our bilateral agreement but also a setback to the diplomatic progress mediated by international partners, including ASEAN, the United States, and Malaysia," stated General Chalermchai Sri-saiyath, Chief of Defence Forces for the Royal Thai Army.
"We urge Cambodia to immediately cease such aggressive actions and commit to a transparent investigation as promised. Thailand remains committed to peace but will take all necessary measures to protect our sovereignty and citizens."
The 2025 conflict stems from longstanding territorial disputes rooted in historical treaties from the early 20th century, particularly around sites like the Preah Vihear temple complex, which was awarded to Cambodia by the International Court of Justice in 1962.
Escalations began with a skirmish in May 2025 that killed a Cambodian soldier, followed by landmine incidents, artillery exchanges, and Thai airstrikes under operations such as Yuttha Bodin and Sattawat.
Previous ceasefires, including the July 28 agreement and the October 26 Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord, were similarly undermined by mutual accusations, leading to renewed hostilities in November and December.
Thailand has called for an urgent meeting of the General Border Committee to address this incident and has notified international observers, including the ASEAN monitoring team, to verify the violation. We emphasize our dedication to dialogue and de-escalation but will not tolerate further encroachments.