Anutin Charnvirakul took leave from official duties to appear on a program clarifying the Thai-Cambodian border conflict. He is awaiting military verification of Chinese-made missiles and plans to send flights to repatriate thousands of Thai nationals. He is confident the situation will not escalate to the point of declaring martial law.
At 9:00 a.m. on 15 Dec 2025 GMT+7, Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, appeared on a television program. The program was titled "Kamkon Khao: Talk Off-Screen." The host was Sarayuth Suthassanachinda. Anutin addressed the Thai-Cambodian border clashes, saying he has been in constant communication with security officials about protecting territory and sovereignty. The military has reported goals and schedules to him. When asked about criticisms that he seemed indecisive, Anutin said a prime minister cannot be detached. Regardless of public opinion, ultimate responsibility lies with the government, which operates within a framework. Decisions about military engagement and objectives are made by security forces, supported by government budget and in consultation with the National Security Council (NSC). Regarding comments from U.S. President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim about Thailand's strong response, Anutin said both are abroad and hear only reports, while he has witnessed the situation firsthand. He told Trump and Anwar to urge Cambodia to cease fire, which he communicated clearly. Trump's stance showed no pressure. Anutin summarized: Thailand has fulfilled four points agreed with Cambodia, but Cambodia has not; thus, Cambodia must resolve the issue.
He questioned who has the right to use satellites to monitor the clashes.
"At this moment, we have not been directly contacted by our counterpart, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet. Why should we concede today? We are not at fault. We have a declaration that is clear. They must be told that if they return, it must be under conditions that Thailand feels safe. We do not wish to have problems with any neighboring country. Cambodia broke its promise, and beyond defaulting, they attacked us. Regarding demands to use satellites to verify who fired first, who are you to do that? What right do you have to use satellites to track military operations of my country? Using satellites to catch us responding strongly—are we fighting? When they fired at us first, we did not start this. If we want peace, both sides must retreat. It is simpler, and I do not think it will reach the election day. No one wants conflict; every day of conflict causes damage." Anutin stated.
Anutin said if Article 151 is invoked, it would break his neck in parliament.
At 9:10 a.m., Anutin Charnvirakul appeared again on "Kamkon Khao: Talk Off-Screen," hosted by Sarayuth Suthassanachinda. When asked about the dissolution of parliament and allegations that it was to avoid scrutiny, Anutin said no investigation has occurred yet. The dissolution happened because those who supported the government advised it was better to dissolve than lose support. When asked if the People's Party (Pop Prachachon) told the Prime Minister to dissolve parliament before the royal decree was submitted, Anutin said the decree was not submitted; it was returned at 10 p.m. that night. He personally did not submit it earlier. When asked if this was betrayal, since Pop Prachachon believed Anutin influenced senators, he said if he influenced senators, that would imply collusion. He said he is himself and the senators are senators; he cannot speak for them. They are not fooled. On 16 Dec 2025 GMT+7, a referendum question will be submitted to the cabinet. If he refuses, he will not submit it. He follows the MOA and feels no one supports him anymore, so power must be returned to the people to hold elections. This government is subject to a no-confidence motion, but if Article 152 is used, why use Article 151? Using Article 151 would abruptly end his career in parliament, forcing him to take risks with no government in place. He has warned against playing this game.
He said it is time for the government, not the party.
When asked about allegations that some try to exploit nationalism to gain political popularity and avoid negotiations to maintain the situation for the Bhumjaithai Party, Anutin said he is the prime minister now, focused on his duties and the organization's interests—meaning the government. He is not concerned with political trends. He wants elections since leaving government but worries about the country and Cambodia. If a no-confidence vote succeeds, there will be no government. All ministers will lose office, and a new prime minister must be selected, which takes about a month. This is a government matter, not Bhumjaithai Party business, Anutin said.
He affirmed he has never boarded Ben Smith's private plane or yacht.
When asked about photos with Ben Smith, Anutin acknowledged acquaintance but not close friendship. Regarding rumors he lent Ben Smith his private plane, he denied it, noting they own planes of the same brand but different models. Similarly, he has never boarded Ben Smith's yacht; he has his own docked in Pattaya, while Ben Smith's is in Phuket.
The Prime Minister plans to summon the National Security Council to discuss the seizure of Chinese missiles.
At 11:00 a.m., reporters reported that Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul took leave in the morning to attend Channel 3's "Kamkon Khao: Talk Off-Screen" program to update on the Thai-Cambodian border situation, transnational crime solutions, and political issues following the parliamentary dissolution. Later, the Prime Minister said he invited Chatree Bangchuad, Secretary of the National Security Council (NSC), for a meeting to discuss several issues, including proposals to intercept maritime military supplies, the seizure of fifth-generation Chinese-made GAM-102 LR anti-tank guided missiles at Hill 500 yesterday, and infiltration by spies and mercenaries from Cambodia into Thailand. These issues remain under surveillance and monitoring.
He expressed readiness to assist Thai nationals in every possible way.
When asked about assisting Thai nationals wanting to return by airplane, the Prime Minister said they are prepared to provide full support but have not yet discussed details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Routine operations do not require his approval; all agencies can act to ensure convenience and safety for Thais. Regarding chartering commercial flights to pick up Thais in Cambodia, Anutin said anything facilitating convenience for Thais will be done. Reports indicate thousands of Thais are stranded, and efforts will be maximized. When asked about the possibility of expanding martial law, the Prime Minister said it depends on the situation but believes it will not reach that point.