BANGKOK — 6 January 2026, Thailand condemned a shooting incident in which Cambodian forces fired into the Chong Bok area of Nam Yuen district in Ubon Ratchathani province, wounding one Thai soldier, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.
Nikondej Balankura, director-general of the Department of Information and spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the incident occurred on Tuesday morning, 6 January. He said Thailand strongly denounced the action, which it said reflected Cambodia’s lack of responsibility in complying with a joint statement signed by both sides at a special meeting of the Thai–Cambodian General Border Committee on 27 December 2025.
According to the statement, Thailand exercised maximum restraint and did not retaliate with weapons. Thai authorities immediately contacted their Cambodian counterparts to verify the facts and were initially informed that the incident was an accident. Nevertheless, Thailand called on Cambodia to strictly respect and adhere to the joint statement to prevent any recurrence.
Thailand will lodge a formal protest with Cambodia, the ministry said. Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow has already contacted Cambodia’s deputy prime minister and foreign minister to demand that Cambodia take responsibility and issue an apology for the incident.
The shooting underscored Cambodia’s lack of readiness to uphold and implement the joint statement, the ministry said. Despite the passing of a 72-hour ceasefire period, the situation remains fragile. Sincerity and commitment to the joint statement are therefore essential foundations for building mutual trust before any bilateral framework discussions can proceed, including future meetings of the Joint Boundary Commission, it added.
