SURIN, Thailand – Intense clashes persist along the Surin province border as Cambodian forces opened fire early Sunday morning. Some artillery shells landed in Thai villages, causing damage and expanding the conflict zone, despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s call for ceasefire negotiations.
The fighting broke out around 4 a.m. near Prasat Ta Kwai and Ta Muon Thom in Phanom Dong Rak district. Some rounds crossed into Thailand, striking a village in Ban Pluang subdistrict, Prasat district, Surin province. The shells damaged homes, setting some on fire. Roofing sheets and structural materials were scattered by the blasts. Fortunately, residents had evacuated earlier following official warnings, so no injuries or deaths were reported.
In one incident, a Wagyu cattle farm suffered losses with six cows killed by stray artillery. The farm owner recounted waking to the sounds of artillery fire and witnessing BM-21 rockets hitting his cattle shed. Although deeply saddened, he accepted the situation as unavoidable amid the ongoing conflict.
Reports also confirm that Cambodian forces deliberately targeted Prasat Ta Muon Thom, causing continued damage to this historic site. These attacks violate international laws, hitting civilian areas, communities, businesses, and heritage landmarks. During a site visit, reporters heard heavy artillery fire echoing continuously.
Despite the dangers, villagers from neighboring communities insisted on staying to guard their homes, even without bomb shelters. They worry more about looters exploiting the turmoil than the fighting itself.
Due to the escalating violence, Prasat district authorities have closed two temporary shelters and relocated residents from Naeng Mud subdistrict, Kab Choeng district—nearly 100 kilometers away from the fighting zone. The government also urges websites to refrain from sharing exact shelter locations to prevent targeting by Cambodian forces.
In Prasat town, many shops remain shuttered as residents seek safer areas. Some stores, like mobile phone shops, remain open but cautiously monitor the situation. Local monks temporarily ordained have returned home early to care for their families due to the unrest.
The district chief said security forces continue informing residents about the situation and have ordered closure of strategic locations. They assessed that BM-21 rockets have not reached Prasat town itself, though long-range missiles pose risks not only to Surin but to neighboring provinces. Residents understand the gravity of the threat.
This afternoon, Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Minister of Culture, visited Surin to meet with those injured and to deliver aid and encouragement to affected villagers.
Border residents on both sides hope for a swift ceasefire to ease tensions, with the expectation that Thailand will not be disadvantaged in any negotiations. (TNA)
