Thai and Cambodian soldiers briefly clash in a disputed border area
Associated Press3 days
Thai-Cambodia Border Clash Leaves One Dead, Sparks Talks
Above: Cambodian soldiers sit atop a BM-21 Grad self-propelled multiple rocket launcher driving along a street in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on May 28, 2025. Image copyright: Tang Chhin Sothy/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
The quick diplomatic response from officials on both sides shows how far Cambodia and Thailand have come after years of conflict. That said, regular citizens are much more political and voice their patriotism on social media. While dialogue is good, the free exchange of ideas is currently more prevalent in Thailand. Both countries need to have free dialogue to keep issues civil and avoid a return to violence.
Narrative B
Cambodia has been just as important as Thailand in promoting peace and economic prosperity. This is proven by the fact that both countries have now consistently strengthened their alliance for 75 years, a result that could not have happened without mutual cooperation. Cambodia will continue to design regional economic policies so that everyone, on both sides of the border, can remain safe.