BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai issued a stern government statement on 29 July, condemning Cambodia’s breach of the recently agreed ceasefire and confirming that formal protests have been submitted to the United States, China, and the ASEAN Chair. All branches of the Thai armed forces have been ordered to remain deployed to protect Thailand’s sovereignty and citizens. Phumtham appeared solemn and did not take any media questions.
At 1:20 p.m. at Government House, Deputy PM and Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, currently acting as Prime Minister, delivered the government’s official statement alongside Foreign Minister Maris Sangiamphong and Deputy Defense Minister Gen. Natthaphon Nakphanich. The statement outlined the government’s response to the ongoing border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia.
Phumtham reaffirmed Thailand’s sincere efforts to end the clashes swiftly. He emphasized that the ceasefire agreement, reached after negotiations in Putrajaya, Malaysia, was aimed at protecting national sovereignty and the lives and property of civilians and soldiers. He reiterated that Thailand has strictly observed the agreement in good faith.
However, Cambodian forces have violated the ceasefire by launching attacks on Thai positions in several areas, forcing Thai troops to respond decisively and proportionately to defend national sovereignty and civilian lives.
In response, the Thai government has submitted official protests to the ASEAN Chair (Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim), the United States, and the People’s Republic of China — all of whom witnessed the original ceasefire talks — highlighting Cambodia’s lack of sincerity.
The government has instructed all armed forces to maintain their positions to protect Thailand’s territorial integrity. Phumtham stressed that Thailand will not allow any infringement on its sovereignty under any circumstances.
He noted that Thai and Cambodian regional commanders held talks earlier today to explore ways to de-escalate the situation, and that Thailand remains open to further high-level negotiations to end the violence and prevent more loss of life among civilians and military personnel.
Phumtham expressed confidence that Thailand’s actions, based on international norms, humanitarian principles, and human rights, will be clearly recognized by the global community. These principles will guide the ongoing fact-finding and diplomatic processes after the ceasefire is fully restored.
He urged the public to follow official sources for updates. The Ministry of Interior and related agencies are working to assist displaced citizens, especially with evacuation and repatriation efforts. Residents were advised to await official assessments from the government. Local officials have been instructed to fully support evacuees at designated shelters.
The government also praised the bravery and sacrifices of Thai soldiers defending the nation’s sovereignty and protecting the people.
In closing, Phumtham warned the public not to fall for disinformation or psychological warfare by Cambodia aimed at creating internal division. He reaffirmed that “Team Thailand” will continue working with full dedication to uphold the national interest and ensure the safety of its people.
According to reporters, Phumtham remained expressionless and refused to answer any media questions following the statement, including those related to rumors that Cambodian spies were operating along the Thai border to track military and civilian shelter movements.
Foreign Minister Maris Sangiamphong later confirmed that formal diplomatic protests had been sent to ASEAN Chair Anwar Ibrahim, the United States, and China, condemning Cambodia’s violations of the ceasefire. He declined to reveal further details, stating that he must return to his duties.
