AKP Phnom Penh, January 01, 2026 --

The United States of America has welcomed Thailand’s release of the 18 Cambodian soldiers, describing the move as a positive step towards rebuilding neighbourly relations and trust, read a press statement issued by Mr. Thomas “Thommy” Pigott, Principal Deputy Spokesperson at the U.S. Department of State. 

According to the statement dated Dec. 31, the United States welcomes the resolute efforts of the Cambodian and Thai governments to uphold the Dec. 27 ceasefire agreement. 

“This demonstrates both countries’ commitments to lasting peace by implementing the provisions of the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accords,” it underlined.

The statement also reaffirmed the U.S.’ readiness to support the Cambodian and Thai governments as they resume the critical implementation measures agreed to in the Oct. 26 Joint Declaration.

The 18 Cambodian soldiers safely returned to Cambodia at 10:00 a.m. on Dec. 31 via the Prum International Border Crossing in Pailin province, under the observation of the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

By C. Nika