Prime Minister affirmed that the border remains calm and there are no signs of a third clash.

Today (Jan 27) 1:30 PM at Government House, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, also Minister of Interior, addressed the issue of Cambodia's tactical digging of additional canals along the border after his visit to the Thai-Cambodian border in Sa Kaeo Province on January 26, 2026. When asked about any further reports regarding Cambodia's strategic digging of additional canals along the border, he replied that discussions had taken place between the armies of both countries. He added that if any actions caused suspicion, the actions should be carried out according to the agreement signed on December 27, 2025.

When asked if the digging of canals by Cambodia would cause apprehension and distrust in Thailand, despite it being Cambodian territory, Mr. Anutin responded that each country can build its own defenses, and Thailand is doing so in a way that it believes is effective against various threats. Thailand will remain in its position. We will not interfere with the sovereignty of other parties, and we will not allow other parties to participate in our sovereignty.

Regarding the question of whether the Prime Minister is concerned about the trench digging being 500 meters from the Thai border, Mr. Anutin stated that a serious clash had recently occurred on this issue. He acknowledged Thailand's concerns but requested that these concerns be directed to the government and the military while reassuring the public. He emphasized that national defense is the government's responsibility.

Concerning Cambodia's avoidance of clearing landmines from the Thai side but instead clearing those from other countries, Mr. Anutin explained that Cambodia must adhere to agreements regarding landmine clearance, which are not only with Thailand but also international. Thailand is ready to cooperate, and the declaration signed between Thailand and Cambodia defines landmine clearance as "humanitarian" clearance, a binding agreement between Thailand and Cambodia. If either side finds landmines anywhere, they can proceed immediately without consulting the other. Therefore, Thailand will clear any landmines it finds, especially in areas under Thai sovereign control.

Regarding the assessment of whether there will be a third round of fighting, Mr. Anutin said that we are not complacent. The security forces still believe that there are no signs of conflict or violence escalating to the point of clashes, which is a good thing and shows that our military is not taking any chances.

Concerning the leaked Cambodian documents regarding the procurement of additional air attack weapons, Mr. Anutin said that this information has not yet reached him.

Regarding rumors of Cambodia's attempts to destabilize Thai politics, Mr. Anutin stated that as long as we abide by the ceasefire agreement and the Kuala Lumpur Declaration, and as long as both sides adhere to these agreements, neither country poses a threat to the other.

Regarding whether a full National Security Council   meeting will be convened before the election to assess the situation on the Thai-Cambodian border and the unrest in the three southern provinces, Mr. Anutin said that regular meetings are held and that the NSC Secretary-General, the Director of the National Intelligence Agency, the military, and he are constantly reporting on the situation and exchanging views, so a full council meeting is not necessary.

When asked again whether Cambodia has not yet ceased to be hostile towards Thailand, Mr. Anutin replied that we remain prepared and alert. However, since the ceasefire was imposed 3-4 weeks ago, there have been no indications of any potential tensions. As for whether we can say we can be complacent, the public can live their lives normally. Maintaining vigilance and national defense is the responsibility of the government and the military.

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Source of material: official media /online news