A Cambodian soldier was killed in a brief but intense firefight along the Thailand-Cambodia border near Ubon Ratchathani province, sparking immediate de-escalation talks between military commanders. The clash, which erupted near Chong Bok due to the disputed construction of a trench, saw both sides exchange fire before agreeing to a ceasefire. While Thailand reports no casualties,tensions linger as troops remain deployed. News Directory 3 provides crucial updates on this volatile situation. The incident underscores the long-standing border disputes, including past conflicts over the Preah Vihear temple. Discover what steps are being taken to prevent further hostilities and ensure regional stability.
Thailand, Cambodia Border Clash Leads to De-escalation in Ubon Ratchathani
Updated May 28, 2025
Tensions flared along the Thailand-cambodia border on Wednesday when a brief exchange of fire occurred in a disputed area of ubon Ratchathani province. The incident, which resulted in one reported fatality, has prompted de-escalation talks between local commanders, tho soldiers remain at the scene.
Google Maps shows Chong Bok, a mountain pass near the Thailand-Cambodia-laos border.
The clash occurred near Chong Bok in Nam Yuen district around 5:30 a.m., focusing on a contested area where Cambodian soldiers where allegedly digging a trench. According to Phnom Penh’s defense ministry, Thai forces initiated the gunfire, targeting a long-standing Cambodian army base. Thailand, though, stated its troops were attempting to negotiate a withdrawal when they came under attack, prompting retaliation.
Army spokesman Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvaree reported no thai casualties in the 10-minute exchange. Following the clash, local Thai and Cambodian commanders spoke by phone and agreed to a ceasefire. Despite the agreement, troops from both nations remain in the area.
Lt. Gen. Boonsin Padklang, commander of the 2nd Army, stated that Thai soldiers on patrol observed Cambodian soldiers “changing the geographic aspect” of the disputed area and requested they cease.The Cambodians then allegedly opened fire, leading to the clash. he added that local authorities are discussing the situation.
Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said Cambodian soldiers had dug trenches in the disputed area for the second time. When Thai soldiers saw them securing the newly dug area, the Cambodian side opened fire, he said.
Following the incident, a Cambodian military officer contacted Thai Deputy Defence Minister Gen. Natthapon Nakpanich to suggest de-escalation, according to Phumtham. He also stated that Thai soldiers would remain at the site.
“I received a report from the area that the situation made the shooting response necessary for self-defence and the protection of Thai sovereignty,” Phumtham said.
Past Thailand-Cambodia border disputes have resulted in deadly clashes, notably in 2011 over the Preah Vihear temple. A more recent confrontation occurred in February at Prasat Ta Muen Thom.
What’s next
Both sides are urged to return to their normal positions and await high-level negotiations regarding border demarcation to prevent future hostilities and ensure regional stability in the Thailand-Cambodia border region.
