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- Anutin Tells Trump: Cambodia Must Cease Fire First
Picture courtesy of Kaohoon International
Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has called on US President Donald Trump to urge Cambodia to stop firing first. This comes after Trump threatened tariffs on Thailand and Cambodia if hostilities continue. Trump made these remarks in an interview with The Wall Street Journal, highlighting his use of tariffs as leverage.
Trump's comments followed phone discussions with Thai and Cambodian leaders, Anutin Charnvirakul and Hun Manet. Trump claimed both agreed to a ceasefire within 24 hours to resume peace agreements. Despite this, fighting persisted between the two countries.
Speaking to reporters after a National Security Council meeting, Anutin refrained from commenting on Trump's tariff threat. He dismissed suggestions of international pressure for a ceasefire and questioned Cambodian accusations of Thai aggression. He highlighted videos showing Cambodia firing BM-21 rockets as evidence.
Anutin remarked on oil tankers at the Chong Mek border, noting they were destined for Laos, not Cambodia. Deputy Army Spokesperson Col. Richa Suksuwanon noted a decrease in Khmer gunfire, possibly due to disrupted Cambodian supply lines. However, resistance remains in Thai-controlled areas.
Amid these tensions, Col. Richa addressed suspicions about seized Chinese weapons, denying any evidence of Chinese support but confirming Thai control over the arms. Air force spokesperson ACM Chakrit Thamvichai stated that Thai military operations continue robustly to deter Cambodian aggression.
Lt. Cmdr. Napasorn Tippaso of the navy reported the arrest of a suspected spy in Trat province. There is a potential link between the suspect and a senior Cambodian police officer, but further details are still unknown, reported Thai Newsroom.
Key Takeaways
- Anutin urges Trump to address Cambodian aggression before any tariffs.
- Trump claimed ceasefire agreements, but hostilities persist.
- Thai military efforts focus on disrupting Cambodian supply lines.
Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-12-17
16 December 16 20251381952 - 16 Thai Civilians Dead Amid Ongoing Border Tensions
File photo courtesy of Wikipedia
Border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia persisted on Tuesday, with Thai officials confirming the civilian death toll has now reached 16. The Thai Defence Ministry has reported limited economic impacts so far, despite escalating military actions. Heavy shelling continues at strategic locations, with both sides exchanging fire.
In recent developments, Rear Adm Surasant Kongsiri stated Cambodian forces continued their assault, prompting Thai military retaliation. BM-21 rockets targeted strategic sites like Hill 677 and the Chong An Ma border pass in Ubon Ratchathani early Tuesday. Subsequently, they deployed heavy weapons at Hill 350 and the Prasat Ta Khwai temple in Surin province, an ongoing flashpoint in the conflict.
From December 7 to 16, 16 Thai civilians died due to the fighting. Causes included rocket shrapnel and indirect impacts like traffic incidents and restricted access to medical care. Despite these events, the Department of Foreign Trade observed a minimal impact on Thailand's exports, with an overall growth of 13% year over year in the first ten months.
Deputy Director-General of the Department of Foreign Trade, Duangarthit Nidhi-u-tai, highlighted that Thai exports reached 9.3 trillion baht this year, despite border closures since July. In October alone, exports amounted to 900 billion baht, marking a 5.7% increase. Meanwhile, the deputy governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Nithee Sriprae, noted that foreign tourist arrivals have remained steady, without cancellations in major tourist hubs.
The TAT anticipates 32.8 million foreign visitors for the year, attributing any downturn to a prior decline in Chinese tourists, which now shows signs of recovery. Domestic tourism remains robust, especially in the north and northeast, despite rescheduling due to the conflict in areas like Trat. Sunday’s heavy fighting led to a curfew in Trat, but it has since been lifted.
The Thai cabinet allocated 2.44 billion baht from the government’s contingency fund to support military efforts along the eastern border. Government spokesman Siripong Angkasakulkiat confirmed the funds are geared toward army and navy operations in response to the ongoing tensions, reported the Bangkok Post.
Key Takeaways:
- Thai civilian deaths from the conflict have reached 16.
- Thailand's export growth continues despite border clashes.
- Tourist arrivals remain steady, with shifts in domestic travel.
Related Stories:Rising Tensions: Is Full-Scale War Looming on the Thailand-Cambodia Border?
Cambodia Masses 12,000 Soldiers at Thai Border Amid Tensions
Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-17
16 December 16 20251381945 - Cambodia Hires Foreign Lobbyists for PR Battle with ThailandRear Adm Surasant Kongsiri. Video screenshot
Thailand's Defence Ministry has accused Cambodia of employing foreign lobbyists to sway global opinion amid tensions between the two nations. Rear Adm Surasant Kongsiri stated that these lobbyists are portraying Cambodia as the victim in the ongoing conflict, stirring international sympathy against Thailand.
The Ministry highlighted that social media is rife with war-related reports shared by western lobbyists. These lobbyists are seen in videos alleging Thai aggression, framing Thailand as impacting civilian areas rather than military targets. Surasant pointed out that Thailand does not have any foreign lobbyists representing it; instead, it depends on its Ministry of Foreign Affairs to shape the international narrative.
The Defence Ministry asserts that Thailand's actions solely target the military, refuting claims made by lobbyists about their impact on civilians. Maratee Andamo, of the Department of Information, emphasised that Thailand counters misinformation with facts and official communications to global organisations, suggesting these informative tactics have limited longevity without substantive backing.
In early incidents, a US PR consultant falsely posing as a journalist spread dubious reports to gain sympathy for Cambodia. The STRONG Anti-Corruption Thailand Club has identified documents showing Cambodia hired multiple lobbying firms. Among them, National Consulting Services Inc was engaged specifically to tarnish Thailand's image for a fee of $38,000 a month, part of a larger strategy led by Phnom Penh.
Images associated with the lobbyists' campaign purportedly show Cambodian villagers injured by rubber bullets, further inflaming the situation. The Anti-Corruption group calls this "full-scale information warfare," cautioning about the legal implications of such tactics under international laws.
Key Takeaways
- Cambodia reportedly hires foreign lobbyists to shape global perceptions against Thailand.
- Thailand counters lobbyist narratives through its Foreign Affairs and factual dissemination.
- Documents reveal Cambodia’s active PR campaign to reposition itself amid tensions.
Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-17
16 December 16 20251381947 - Pheu Thai Picks Thaksin Nephew Yodchanan as PM Candidate
Yodchanan Wongsawat. Picture courtesy of Facebook
Pheu Thai Party has announced Yodchanan Wongsawat as their prime candidate for prime minister in the upcoming general election on 8th February. Party leader Julapun Amornvivat revealed that Wongsawat, Thaksin Shinawatra’s nephew, is their top choice, accompanied by two other candidates, Julapun himself and veteran Suriya Juangroongruangkit. This move highlights Pheu Thai's ambition to regain power and address Thailand's pressing issues.
The decision comes after internal party discussions identified Wongsawat, 46, as the most suitable candidate due to his leadership and expertise in technology. Pheu Thai, once impacted by controversies involving Thaksin's daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra, aims to rebuild its reputation. Wongsawat, a son of former prime minister Somchai Wongsawat and Thaksin’s sister Yaowapha, has been with the party since its inception and holds a background in engineering.
Julapun, 50, brings economic management experience as a former deputy finance minister, while Suriya, 71, has extensive ministerial experience, primarily within the Transport Ministry. The party believes these diverse backgrounds will appeal to voters facing national challenges, as stated in their social media post outlining the candidates' profiles.
During the press conference, Wongsawat expressed confidence in drawing voters back to Pheu Thai, showcasing how he intends to serve them effectively. He stands as the youngest candidate and has an academic background with a specialisation in brain-computer interface technology. Wongsawat previously contested in Chiang Mai and served on the Digital Government Development Agency board.
This announcement also comes at a time when Thaksin Shinawatra, 76, remains incarcerated, following the Supreme Court’s order for him to serve a one-year sentence. His influence, however, continues to guide the party's ethos, with Wongsawat pledging to follow in his uncle’s footsteps by leading Thailand onto the global stage, reported the Bangkok Post.
Key Takeaways:
- Yodchanan Wongsawat leads Pheu Thai's candidates for PM role.
- Party aims to re-establish itself after past controversies.
- Expert backgrounds are expected to tackle Thailand's key issues.
Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-17
16 December 16 20251381940 - Army Appoints Relatives of Fallen Soldiers to Service Roles
Picture courtesy of ThaiRath
The Royal Thai Army has continued to appointed relatives of fallen soldiers to civil and military service roles, reaffirming its pledge that no family of a deceased serviceman will be left behind and that their honour will be upheld permanently. The move provides immediate employment and institutional support to affected families following recent losses during operational duties.
On 16 December 2025, the Second Army Region announced the appointments in a Facebook post, stating that the army would stand by the families of “brave soldiers” and ensure their dignity and welfare remain protected. The announcement included photographs and detailed information about each appointment made under the policy.
The background to the decision lies in the deaths of several soldiers who were killed while performing duties in border and security operations in northeastern Thailand. These soldiers were serving in active operational areas including Prasat Ta Kwai in Surin province and Kantharalak district in Sisaket province, locations that have seen heightened military activity.
Among the appointments, Ms Pitchayapa Sing-on, sister of Sergeant Jirayu Sing-on of the 6th Long Range Reconnaissance Company, 6th Infantry Division, was appointed as a non-commissioned officer under the 27th Army Circle. Sergeant Jirayu had been on duty in the Prasat Ta Kwai area of Surin province at the time of his death.
Mrs Sopa Khrotsakha, mother of Private Yanapat Khrotsakha of the 2nd Infantry Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment, was appointed as a typist clerk with the logistics unit of the 21st Army Circle. Her son had been performing duties in Kantharalak district, Sisaket province.
Ms Rojarin Singsorn, wife of Sergeant Major Thawatchai Busapa of the 106th Artillery Battalion, 6th Artillery Regiment, was appointed as a non-commissioned officer under the 210th Army Circle. Sergeant Major Thawatchai had been stationed at the Sattasom observation post during his deployment.
Ms Homchan Krajantong, sister of Private Theerayut Krajantong of the 2nd Air Defence Artillery Battalion, 2nd Air Defence Artillery Regiment, was appointed as a non-commissioned officer under the 26th Army Circle. He had also been operating in Kantharalak district, Sisaket province.
Ms Suwimon Boonlert, sister of Sergeant Noppol Boonlert of the 6th Long Range Reconnaissance Company, 6th Infantry Division, was appointed as a non-commissioned officer under the 22nd Army Circle. Sergeant Noppol had been deployed in the Prasat Ta Kwai area of Surin province.
Thairath reported that the army stated that these appointments reflect its long-standing commitment to honour the sacrifice of fallen personnel and provide lasting security to their families. Officials said similar measures would continue to be implemented as part of institutional welfare and remembrance policies.
Key Takeaways
• The Royal Thai Army appointed relatives of fallen soldiers to service positions on 16 December 2025.
• The appointments cover multiple army circles and include both military and civilian roles.
• The policy aims to honour fallen soldiers while ensuring long-term support for their families.
Related Stories
Thai-army-appoints-fallen-soldier’s-mother-to-service-role
Adapted by Asean Now from Thairath 2025-12-17
16 December 16 20251381957 - Thai–Cambodian Border Clashes Leave Flights Unaffected
Photo via Facebook/AOT Official
The Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (Aerothai) has confirmed that the recent skirmishes along the Thai–Cambodian border are having no impact on international flight routes to and from Thailand. This announcement comes as reassurance to travellers during the bustling winter tourist season. Pichet Kunadhamraks, chairman of Aerothai's board, stated that airports and tourist destinations remain unaffected by the conflict.
According to Mr. Pichet, the fighting is occurring far from critical aviation and tourism zones, ensuring that flights remain uninterrupted. He remarked, “The fighting near the border has no impact whatsoever on flight routes serving winter tourism.” He emphasised that Thailand continues to maintain a delicate balance between its national security and the continued flow of economic and tourism activities.
Aerothai's operations are stable, safe, and in alignment with international standards. Mr. Pichet specifically urged tourists from South Korea to keep visiting Thailand, highlighting the nation's readiness for the high tourist season. Thailand has averaged 54 flights per day to and from South Korea over the past year, primarily via Seoul’s Incheon Airport.
Going forward, Aerothai anticipates an increase in daily flights, expecting to handle around 60 flights per day during December and January. This rise reflects confidence in Thailand as a secure and appealing destination, despite regional tensions. The country's commitment to international aviation standards ensures continued connectivity and safety for travellers.
Key Takeaways
- Aerothai reassures that there will be no flight disruptions due to Thai–Cambodian border clashes.
- Thailand's air traffic remains stable, supporting winter tourism flow.
- Korean tourist numbers are expected to rise during December and January.
Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-15
14 December 14 20251381728 - CIB & FDA Bust 4×100 Drug Rings, Seize 1.3m Pills
Pictures courtesy of Thaitabloid
The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have dismantled three networks linked to the illegal “4×100” drug mixture, seizing more than 1.3 million tramadol capsules worth over 20 million baht. The coordinated raids targeted 10 locations across four provinces on 16 December 2025, disrupting supply chains feeding youth drug abuse.
The operation focused on networks selling tramadol, cough syrups and antihistamines used to mix with kratom water to create the intoxicant known as “4×100”. Authorities said the seizures and arrests would immediately reduce availability in communities where the mixture is sold, particularly to teenagers and young adults.
The crackdown was led by Pol Lt Gen Nattasak Chawanasai, Commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau, with senior officers from the Consumer Protection Police Division (PCPD) and executives from the FDA. Searches were carried out simultaneously in Chon Buri, Samut Prakan, Sing Buri and Bangkok, targeting distributors in the eastern region and Bangkok as well as an illicit cough syrup manufacturing operation in Sing Buri.
Investigators seized more than 300 items with a combined value exceeding 20 million baht, including 1,366,810 tramadol capsules and 10,496 bottles of cough and allergy medicines. Machinery, raw materials and packaging used to produce counterfeit cough syrup were also confiscated. One suspect was arrested on charges of practising pharmacy without a licence, while forensic analysis and testing of seized items is under way to identify additional suspects.
Police said the networks obtained medicine quotas by opening clinics or pharmacies, then diverted the drugs to unauthorised storage sites and sold them online. The products were distributed to teenagers and kratom drink shops in local communities. Another network was found to be producing fake cough syrup and supplying pharmacies in outbreak areas for use in creating intoxicating mixtures.
FDA Secretary-General Suphatra Boonserm said abnormal orders of tramadol, totalling millions of capsules during 2024 - 2025, raised red flags and prompted joint investigations with the PCPD. She warned licensed operators not to misuse permits, stating violators would face licence suspension and prosecution, and urged the public to report tips via the FDA hotline 1556.
Thaitabloid reported that Pol Lt Gen Nattasak stressed that the operation aimed to cut off supply at the source rather than focus solely on arrest numbers. He said tramadol is a controlled medicine and illegal distribution for abuse poses a serious social risk. Authorities will pursue all linked networks to the fullest extent of the law and encouraged public reporting via the PCPD hotline 1135 or the “PCPD Consumer Alert” page.
Key Takeaways
• Joint CIB–FDA raids hit 10 sites in four provinces on 16 December 2025.
• Police seized 1,366,810 tramadol capsules and goods worth over 20 million baht.
• Authorities will expand the investigation to reach suppliers and organisers.
Related stories
Raid-uncovers-illegal-cough-syrup-operation-linked-to-‘4x100’-kratom-mix
4x100-drug-production-site-raided-in-Ubon-Ratchathani
Adapted by Asean Now from Thaitabloid 2025-12-17
16 December 16 20251381953 - Swedish Embassy Advises Citizens on Thai–Cambodia Border Tension
Picture Facebook Swedish Embassy
The Swedish Embassy in Thailand has issued a strong warning to its citizens, advising against travel within 50 kilometres of the Thailand–Cambodia border. This alert, which includes islands in the eastern province of Trat such as Ko Chang, Ko Kut, and Ko Mak, comes amid escalating tensions. The advisory, posted on 16 December 2025, emphasises the importance of safety and remains effective since 12 December 2025 until further notice.
This decision stems from ongoing border tensions and follows the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' caution against visiting other sensitive border areas like Narathiwat, Yala, Pattani, and Songkhla. The involvement of Saab, a Swedish defence company, has been linked to the situation. Saab, known for supplying Thailand with Gripen fighter jets, is reportedly supporting Thailand in its military operations against Cambodia. The company's announcement in December 2025, highlighted on social media, discussed contracts with the Royal Thai Air Force and underscored Thailand’s reliance on their aircraft.
The embassy’s warning is part of a broader cautionary stance related to these geopolitical concerns. It has drawn attention from travel and security experts due to its potential impact on Swedish travellers and the tourism industry in the affected regions. Saab's role in providing military support through its fighter jets may have further complicated diplomatic relations, influencing travel advisories.
Moving forward, the situation at the Thailand–Cambodia border is being closely monitored. Authorities have not yet specified a timeline for lifting the advisory. Swedish travellers are urged to stay informed about regional developments and adhere to official guidelines to ensure their safety.
Key Takeaways
- Swedish citizens are warned to avoid the Thailand–Cambodia border and Trat islands.
- The advisory may be due to Saab's military involvement in Thai operations.
- The situation is under observation, with no end date for the advisory.
Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-12-17
16 December 16 20251381950 - Helicopter Maker Leonardo Denies Liability in UK Vichai Crash
Picture courtesy of pixel8000 | via The Thaiger
Italy-based aerospace company Leonardo has firmly denied responsibility for the tragic 2018 helicopter crash that resulted in the death of Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, a well-known Thai entrepreneur and Leicester City football club owner. Vichai's family is suing Leonardo for up to £2.15 billion (approximately 98 billion Thai baht) in London's High Court. The company maintains that its AW169 model, which was involved in the incident, remains safe and that the case was the first crash of its kind.
Vichai, renowned in Britain for his ownership of Leicester City during their miraculous 2015-16 Premier League victory, tragically died after his helicopter crashed just outside the stadium on October 27, 2018, and burst into flames. The inquest jury ruled in January that the incident, which claimed the lives of Vichai, two staff members, pilot Eric Swaffer, and co-pilot and partner Izabela Roza Lechowicz, was accidental. The family filed their case in January, seeking compensation for lost earnings and other damages, while their legal representatives have not commented on Leonardo’s counterclaims.
Leonardo submitted a written defence that was made public last week, asserting no liability for the crash, stating that every aviation authority has declared the AW169 safe. They also proposed that the pilot's controlled landing could have prevented the helicopter from catching fire. Leonardo expressed sympathy for Vichai’s family but stated that the legal claims against them lack both factual and legal grounds.
Britain’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) reported in 2023 that a severe tail rotor failure led to the crash, leaving no room for recovery. Leonardo disputes these findings, highlighting the absence of any safety recommendations directed at them. As the legal proceedings continue, the outcome could have major consequences regarding aviation safety standards and liability within the industry, reported the Bangkok Post.
Key Takeaways:
- Leonardo denies liability for the 2018 helicopter crash that killed Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha.
- The family is suing for up to £2.15 billion over lost earnings and damages.
- AAIB reported unrecoverable tail rotor failure, but Leonardo disputes these findings.
Related story:
Tragic crash report unveils devastating loss of Leicester City’s beloved Thai chairman and crew
Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-17
16 December 16 20251381943 - Thammanat Set as Klatham’s Top PM Contender
Thammanat Prompao. Picture courtesy of Amarin TV
De Facto Klatham boss Thammanat Prompao has been confirmed as the top contender for prime minister in the February 8 election, according to Klatham leader Naruemon Pinyosinwat. Thammanat, currently the acting deputy prime minister and acting agriculture minister, plans to run despite facing allegations of connections with international money-laundering suspects, including Benjamin Mauerberger. Naruemon, who is acting education minister, did not reveal if she might be Thammanat’s running mate or if other candidates will join him on the Klatham ticket.
Thammanat is expected to attract many former MPs to join Klatham for re-election under its banner, including ex-Democrat MPs led by Chalermchai Sri-on. These defections are mostly anticipated in southern constituencies. Thammanat predicts that Klatham will secure around 80 MP seats, primarily in northern and southern regions.
Key Takeaways
- Thammanat Prompao confirmed as Klatham’s top PM contender for 2025.
- Pheu Thai and the People’s Party announce their candidates as the election heats up.
- Political party movements continue with MPs switching allegiances ahead of the poll.
Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-12-17
16 December 16 20251381941
Rear Adm Surasant Kongsiri. Video screenshot
