The Defense Ministry emphasized that politics leads the military, and that the ceasefire depends on the government. The military continues operations in accordance with international principles, steadily reducing the opponent's capabilities for nearly nine days.
On 16 Dec 2025 GMT+7, Rear Admiral Surasunt Kongsiri, spokesperson for the Defense Ministry, explained the potential impact of ministerial-level negotiations on the border conflict situation. He stated that country management fundamentally follows "politics leading the military," with the military serving only as a mechanism to support state policy. Decisions on ceasefire depend on the government's resolution, particularly through the National Security Council.
Regarding speculation that the military might reduce ceasefire efforts due to international scrutiny over Thailand's reportedly intensified retaliation, the Defense Ministry spokesperson confirmed that Thai military operations strictly adhere to international principles under the United Nations Charter and international humanitarian law. Three key principles guide this: necessity, proportionality, and distinction of targets.
He affirmed that recent attacks targeted only military objectives. The operational intensity depends on Cambodia's retaliation and capabilities, ensuring that the use of force aligns appropriately with international standards.
Regarding the latest assessment, Army Deputy Spokesperson Colonel Ritcha Suksuwan disclosed a clear reduction in support weapon fire from Cambodia into Thai territory. This resulted from joint operations by the Army and Air Force to degrade enemy weapon systems, fire control, and supply routes. However, resistance remains in some areas, especially where Thai forces have gained control and the opponent attempts to reclaim territory. Overall, the situation shows signs of easing.
Meanwhile, Air Force spokesperson Air Marshal Jakkrit Thamwichai emphasized that Thai military operations have not diminished in intensity but continue alongside diplomatic efforts to pressure Cambodia into reasonable negotiations. Key targets such as weapons depots, ammunition, and explosives have been hit, significantly reducing Cambodia's military capacity and cutting supply lines, making it harder to move equipment to the front lines.
The Air Force spokesperson assessed that over the past nearly nine days, Thai operations have successfully and continuously degraded the opponent's operational capabilities.
When asked about the Defense Ministry spokesperson's disclosure regarding Cambodia's use of Lobbyists, the spokesperson explained that monitoring revealed hiring of Western Lobbyists communicating in English to the global community, accusing Thailand of violence and civilian impact.
Thailand asserts that the weaponry used is highly precise and targets military objectives only. Any civilian impact is minimal.
The Defense Ministry spokesperson noted that these Lobbyist activities lack clear evidence or imagery and appear to be emotionally charged campaigns. He urged the public to exercise caution and critical judgment when consuming news from all sources.