Lieutenant General Boonsin, former Commander of the 2nd Army Region, offered encouragement to residents at an evacuation center, stressing that the Thai military's current operations are defensive, not aggressive. On the issue of Trump's remarks, he said it is a matter of security for the government to consider.
On 13 Dec 2025 GMT+7, Lieutenant General Boonsin Padklang, also known as 'Commander Kung,' former Commander of the 2nd Army Region and advisor to the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army, visited an evacuation center in Surin Province. He met with residents to offer encouragement and distributed supplies and blankets to the elderly. Many people surrounded the former commander to take photos, with one woman leaning in to kiss his cheek.
Lieutenant General Boonsin told residents to endure their hardships with understanding, noting that some evacuees currently have children serving as frontline soldiers for the country. He urged confidence in the military's capabilities and emphasized that the ongoing military efforts uphold the nation's dignity in response to prior attacks, likening the situation to being invaded, with Thailand not initiating aggression against others.
He further commented on the recent phone discussions initiated by the US president, acknowledging public concerns that true peace might not be achieved, fearing only temporary ceasefires followed by resumed fighting. Regarding the US leader's remark that stepping on a landmine was an accident, Lieutenant General Boonsin said that on security issues, the government should consider these matters carefully and that a solution likely exists. He stressed that the military will proceed with caution and thoroughness. Regarding some citizens' impatience over when the conflict will end, he said the situation is complex and requires careful handling.
, Regarding his phrase to the villagers, "If we do not fight, we become slaves," Lieutenant General Boonsin explained that interpreted another way, it means these issues will recur, which everyone understands. He said they will continue to evacuate and stay here, doing their best during this time.
