U.S. Urges Thailand and Cambodia to Begin Soldier Release After Ceasefire Agreement

The United States has expressed strong expectations that Thailand and Cambodia will swiftly begin the release of 18 detained soldiers following a new ceasefire agreement signed by both countries on Sunday. The signing took place in the presence of U.S. President Donald Trump, marking an important step toward easing regional tensions.

A senior U.S. State Department official, speaking on condition of anonymity, emphasized Washington’s stance that the commitments outlined in the agreement should be implemented without delay. “Our expectation is that the process, with respect to all of the commitments, begin as soon as they were signed,” the official stated, underscoring the urgency behind the diplomatic push.

The ceasefire deal represents a significant development in Southeast Asia’s ongoing efforts to promote peace and stability. The U.S. has maintained close involvement in regional diplomacy, seeking to strengthen cooperation between its allies and prevent escalation along disputed borders.

Ahead of President Trump’s scheduled meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in South Korea, the same official reaffirmed that Washington’s policy on Taiwan remains unchanged. “U.S. policy on Taiwan hasn’t changed one bit,” the official noted, signaling continuity in America’s long-standing “One China” stance.

The official also reiterated that the United States’ approach to North Korea continues to center on achieving complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula — a key foreign policy objective for the Trump administration.

This latest diplomatic move by the U.S. underscores its commitment to regional peace, alliance building, and the enforcement of international agreements. The call for Thailand and Cambodia to act immediately demonstrates Washington’s resolve to ensure that ceasefire commitments translate into tangible actions, strengthening stability in Southeast Asia.