Trump Intervenes in Thai-Cambodian Border Conflict Amidst Scottish Protests
President makes calls for ceasefire while golfing in Scotland
U.S. President Donald Trump announced he contacted the leaders of Cambodia and Thailand, urging an end to their ongoing border hostilities. The intervention came during his golf trip to Scotland, where he is also promoting his own courses.
Just spoke to the Prime Minister of Cambodia relative to stopping the War with Thailand. Great progress!
— Donald J. Trump (May 4, 2025)
The President shared his diplomatic efforts via his Truth Social network on Saturday. He indicated that both nations desired an immediate cessation of hostilities and peace. “After speaking to both Parties, Ceasefire, Peace, and Prosperity seems to be a natural,” Trump posted.
The border clashes, now in their third day, had resulted in at least 32 deaths and over 130 injuries on both sides by Saturday. The fighting is concentrated in coastal areas along the Gulf of Thailand.
Tensions Escalate Over Ancient Sites
The conflict reignited on Thursday following a landmine incident that injured five Thai soldiers. Tensions initially flared over long-disputed ancient temple sites before expanding along the rural border, characterized by hills, jungle, and agricultural land.
Trump also signaled that progress on potential trade deals with either country would be contingent on the fighting ceasing.
Protests Greet Trump’s Scottish Visit
Meanwhile, Trump‘s visit to Scotland, the ancestral homeland of his late mother, faced significant public opposition. Demonstrators gathered in Edinburgh and other cities, voicing their disapproval of his policies and presence.
“The vast majority of Scots have this sort of feeling about Trump that, even though he has Scottish roots, he’s a disgrace,” stated Mark Gorman, 63, an advertising professional who attended a protest outside the U.S. Consulate in Edinburgh.
Other protest groups included environmental activists, supporters of Palestinian statehood, and pro-Ukraine organizations, collectively forming a “Stop Trump Coalition.”
“I don’t think I could just stand by and not do anything,” commented 15-year-old attendee Amy White, holding a sign that read, “We don’t negotiate with fascists.”
Protesters also drew attention to recent media attention and public discourse surrounding Jeffrey Epstein‘s case, displaying images of Trump with the late financier.
Scottish Parliament member Maggie Chapman addressed a crowd in Aberdeen, declaring, “We stand in solidarity, not only against Trump but against everything he and his politics stand for.”
Beyond golf, Trump was scheduled to discuss trade with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The U.S. President’s visit is expected to conclude on Tuesday.
