Thailand alleges over 250 Cambodian drones violated a new truce, casting doubt on the release of captured soldiers and border peace efforts.
BANGKOK: Thailand’s army has accused Cambodia of violating a newly signed ceasefire agreement by flying more than 250 drones over its territory.
The neighbours agreed to an “immediate” ceasefire on Saturday to end weeks of deadly border clashes.
A Thai army statement said “more than 250 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were detected flying from the Cambodian side” on Sunday night.
It called the actions a provocation and violation of agreed tension-reduction measures.
Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn described the incident as “a small issue related to flying drones seen by both sides”.
He said both sides agreed to investigate and resolve it immediately.
Cambodia’s defence ministry later denied any drone launches, stating a ban was in place.
The Thai army said the activity reflected a “hostile stance” and threatened border security.
It warned it “may need to reconsider its decision regarding the release of 18 Cambodian soldiers”.
The soldiers were captured in July and their return was pledged within 72 hours if the ceasefire held.
Family members of the detained soldiers expressed doubt about their release.
The renewed fighting this month shattered an earlier October truce brokered by the United States.
The conflict stems from a territorial dispute over the colonial-era demarcation of the border.
A joint statement from Cambodia, Thailand and China on Monday discussed rebuilding mutual trust.
Cambodia has called for another bilateral meeting in early January to continue border demarcation work.
Hundreds gathered at a war monument near Phnom Penh on Monday evening to pray for peace.
