Sens. Markey, Warren, Rep. Trahan Statement on Escalating Violence Between Cambodia and Thailand

Washington (December 19, 2025) - Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass), Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Representative Lori Trahan (MA-03) released the following statement today on the escalation of violence along the Cambodia-Thailand border. In recent weeks, long-standing tensions have erupted into renewed and intense clashes along the shared border, endangering innocent lives and threatening regional stability.

"We are deeply concerned by the escalation of violence along the Cambodia-Thailand border, which has resulted in the needless loss of life, the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people, and a rapidly growing humanitarian crisis. At a moment of political transition in Thailand, we urge all parties to refrain from actions that could further inflame tensions or place civilians at risk, and to avoid using this conflict for political gain. The protection of civilian life must be paramount. We call on both governments to immediately de-escalate, exercise maximum restraint, and support diplomatic and international efforts aimed at protecting civilians, strengthening regional security, and securing lasting peace.

"The United States must support efforts to resolve this dispute through dialogue and existing diplomatic mechanisms, including engagement through the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and other regional partners. Leaders on all sides should prioritize stability, humanitarian protection, and a negotiated path forward that safeguards the lives of Cambodian and Thai people alike."

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