BANGKOK, THAILAND – Thailand’s government defended the return of 18 Cambodian soldiers as a targeted de-escalation step and rejected suggestions of a diplomatic defeat.
Government stresses jointly agreed rules
The Joint Information Center for the Thai-Cambodian border situation said the transfer of the soldiers back to Cambodia had taken place under previously agreed mechanisms. It stated that international humanitarian principles and the reduction of tensions had been the priority. In a statement, the center said the return was based on bilateral arrangements aimed explicitly at easing tensions along the frontier and did not involve any renunciation of rights, territorial claims or political positions.
“The return of the 18 soldiers does not affect Thailand’s sovereignty and does not constitute recognition of any side’s demands.”
said the center.
Bangkok rejects “victory” narrative
The clarification followed Cambodian media reports portraying the development as a “great victory.” Thai officials countered that the outcome should instead be seen as a “mutual success” arising from cooperation rather than a victory-versus-defeat scenario. The information center urged politicians and media in both countries to avoid rhetorical escalation, arguing that only factual communication could create conditions for security in the border region and progress on de-escalation.
No secret deals, focus on humane treatment
The center explicitly dismissed reports of alleged secret conditions or quid pro quo arrangements linked to the soldiers’ return. It said there had been no special side agreements and that the process had followed only the agreed de-escalation framework. According to the authorities, the 18 soldiers had been held in line with international humanitarian standards, with particular attention to their dignity and safety.
The release was also tied to the security situation, the center added. An earlier handover had not been possible while both sides still faced each other from a hostile starting position.
Sensitive border issues handled via official channels
Responding to reports of supposed territorial gains or losses, the Joint Information Center said border issues were highly sensitive and were handled exclusively through formal channels. The agency warned against drawing far-reaching conclusions from unofficial information. It urged the public to rely on official government statements when seeking information about the border situation.
Diplomacy backed by deterrence
According to the center, Bangkok continued to rely on diplomatic talks through established channels. At the same time, the country maintained appropriate security readiness to protect civilians along the border and safeguard national sovereignty. The combination of dialogue, clearly defined de-escalation mechanisms and military preparedness was described as crucial to preventing further tensions between the two neighboring states.