SURIN, Thailand — Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia escalated over the weekend as both nations indicated a willingness to negotiate a ceasefire in a border conflict that has already claimed at least 34 lives and displaced more than 168,000 people. The fighting, which began on Thursday, intensified after a landmine exploded near the border, injuring five Thai soldiers and sparking blame on both sides.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced on social media that he had engaged with the leaders of both countries, warning that ongoing hostilities could jeopardize future trade agreements. Following these discussions, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet confirmed his country’s readiness to pursue an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire.” He also mentioned that Trump conveyed Thailand’s agreement to halt military actions after his talks with Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.

“This is promising news for our soldiers and citizens,” Hun Manet stated. He has sent Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn to work with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and to communicate directly with Thailand regarding the next steps toward establishing peace.

Phumtham expressed cautious optimism, acknowledging Trump’s mediation effort while emphasizing the necessity for “sincere intention” from Cambodia to ensure a lasting ceasefire. Thailand’s Foreign Ministry highlighted the importance of swift and sincere bilateral discussions to lay out effective strategies for resolving the conflict peacefully.

Fighting continued into Sunday, with reports of intensified artillery exchanges along the contested border. Col. Richa Suksowanont, a deputy spokesperson for the Thai army, accused Cambodian forces of launching attacks that targeted civilian areas, including residential homes. In response, the Thai military has deployed long-range artillery to target Cambodian positions.

Despite diplomatic overtures, both nations have exchanged accusations over the weekend. The Cambodian Defense Ministry charged Thailand with escalating violence through artillery strikes and ground troop movements. They argued that such actions undermine efforts at peace, suggesting a deliberate escalation rather than a pursuit of calm.

In the wake of this conflict, both countries have reported significant casualties. Thailand confirmed another soldier’s death, increasing its losses to 21, primarily among civilians. Cambodia reports 13 fatalities, with a significant number of residents in both nations evacuated to safety.

Local residents caught in the crossfire have expressed deep concern. Pichayut Surasit, an air-conditioning technician in Thailand, recalled how the abrupt outbreak of violence prompted him to leave his job and return home. He is now seeking refuge in a shelter with his family and thousands of others, fearing for their safety amid the ongoing clashes.

Bualee Chanduang, a vendor who also fled to a shelter, shared her hopes for a rapid resolution. “I pray for both sides to engage in talks and find a way to end this war,” she said, highlighting the desperation many families feel as they navigate uncertainty and displacement.

The United Nations Security Council has called on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to mediate talks between Thailand and Cambodia to help de-escalate the tension. Human Rights Watch has raised alarm regarding the reported use of cluster munitions in populated areas, urging both governments to prioritize civilian safety during these hostilities.

The long-standing border dispute, stretching 800 kilometers (500 miles), has seen periodic flare-ups in violence over the decades. However, this latest conflict marks a significant escalation and has created serious humanitarian concerns, with many border communities now largely deserted and critical facilities like schools and hospitals shuttered.