Overview
- Cambodia says Thai F-16s dropped about 40 bombs on Chok Chey in Banteay Meanchey, and Thailand’s military confirmed the air-ground operation as defensive for Sa Kaeo province.
- Working-level border talks entered a third day, with Thailand’s defense minister set to join on Dec. 27 to seek a deal modeled on October’s pledge for mine clearance, heavy-weapons pullback and access for monitors.
- Thailand formally condemned Cambodia’s alleged use of PMN-2 anti-personnel mines after two Thai servicemen were wounded near the Ta Kwai temple area, citing violations of the Ottawa Convention.
- The month’s fighting has killed at least 96 people by authorities’ counts and displaced about one million, with both sides trading blame for civilian harm and claiming self-defense.
- The United States offered to facilitate talks, China engaged regional diplomacy, and ASEAN observed GBC/JBC meetings in Chanthaburi focused on restoring a verifiable ceasefire.