Context:

Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to hold talks in Malaysia to seek a resolution to their ongoing border conflict, following four days of intense fighting that resulted in at least 33 deaths and the displacement of thousands. US President Donald Trump intervened by urging both nations to cease hostilities and engage in dialogue, with Cambodia accepting an immediate ceasefire and Thailand insisting on meaningful talks first. The conflict, rooted in historical border disputes, saw Cambodia losing ground and military equipment to Thailand's superior forces, prompting Cambodia to call for an unconditional ceasefire. Trump, who is currently visiting Scotland, has temporarily halted trade discussions with both countries, with US tariffs set to take effect unless an agreement is reached by August 1. Accusations of initial aggression have been exchanged, with Thailand attributing the start of hostilities to Cambodian drone surveillance and Cambodia blaming Thai troop movements near a historic temple.

Dive Deeper:

• Thailand and Cambodia have been engaged in a four-day conflict over a disputed border area, resulting in at least 33 deaths and the displacement of many civilians. The violence erupted on July 24, with both countries accusing each other of initiating the hostilities.

• US President Donald Trump intervened by calling for an immediate ceasefire, which Cambodia agreed to, while Thailand expressed a willingness for a ceasefire but emphasized the need for dialogue first. Trump's involvement comes as the US prepares to impose tariffs on both countries, which could be avoided if a resolution is reached by August 1.

• Cambodia has been losing military ground and equipment to Thailand's artillery and airstrikes due to its relatively weaker military capabilities. In response, Cambodia has been advocating for an unconditional ceasefire to prevent further casualties and displacement.

• The conflict has historical roots dating back over a century, linked to border demarcations established after the French occupation of Cambodia. Recent accusations include Thailand's claim that Cambodian drones conducted surveillance on Thai troops, while Cambodia alleges that Thai soldiers violated a previous agreement by advancing on a temple.

• Negotiations are set to take place in Malaysia, with acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Cambodian Prime Minister Hum Manet expected to attend. Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had previously offered to facilitate these talks, highlighting the regional effort to mediate the conflict.

• The US President, currently in Scotland for a private visit, has indicated that trade agreements with Thailand and Cambodia will only proceed once peace is established. Trump's mediation underscores the international implications of the conflict, particularly concerning trade relations with the US.

• Despite international pressure and Trump's call for peace, shelling continued into Sunday, demonstrating the complexity and deep-seated nature of the border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia, which has persisted over the years.