Anutin emphasized Thailand's right to defend its sovereignty and dignity following Cambodia's appeal to the international community over the use of force to seize territory. He noted the troop buildup and urged people to await updates from the National Security Council (NSC) and not to believe rumors. During his border visit, he brought the Thai people's thanks to all soldiers.
At 08:20 on 5 Jan 2026 GMT+7, Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, spoke at the Government House regarding the military's role over the past year and whether it has dispelled doubts about the question, "Why have soldiers?" He said that today, as we celebrate the New Year without concern for any dangers to the country, it means our brave soldiers have protected our land and guarded the borders throughout the turn of the year. This was why he visited the border on 2 Jan 2026 to meet soldiers along the line and brought the Thai people's thanks to every soldier.
Addressing reports of Cambodian troop deployments along the border, Anutin said today we should stop talking about rumors. We have the military, security forces, intelligence agencies, and the NSC. We cannot just follow whatever people post for fun. We rely on intelligence and security information from government agencies. Regarding Cambodia's refusal to accept border demarcations established by force, Anutin said it is fine. Each country has its own sovereignty. Thailand will not allow anyone to intrude, threaten, or violate its sovereignty.
Regarding U.S. President Donald J. Trump's order to attack and arrest Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and whether he still holds credibility for peace in the region, Anutin replied that his responsibility is to uphold Thailand's sovereignty and dignity, which he has done fully.
When asked if bilateral talks can proceed easily during the caretaker government, Anutin said officials do hold exchanges and discussions, but signing agreements, especially meetings of the Thai-Cambodian Joint Border Commission (JBC), cannot happen because the JBC chair has ended their term with the government. They must wait, though the working teams continue their efforts.
, When asked about reports from the 2nd Army Region regarding Cambodian military movements along the border this morning, Anutin said commanders report up the chain, and those commanders likely report back to the NSC. He asked to await the NSC's information. . Asked if this might lead to a third clash, Anutin quickly replied that he wants to wait for the NSC's briefing first.
, Regarding whether everything has proceeded smoothly during his recent site visits, Anutin confirmed it has been smooth and noted the positive morale and dedication among the soldiers. On Cambodia's attempts to appeal to the international community concerning Thai troops entering territory, Anutin reiterated his previous answer that each country has the right to act as it sees fit. Thailand protects its sovereignty and dignity and does not act to cause disadvantage or harm. This framework guides its management of international relations, not only with neighbors.
When asked about villagers' concerns for soldiers along the border due to foreign aircraft entering the area, Anutin acknowledged everyone's concern for the troops and expressed thanks on their behalf. Asked if he worries about foreign arms shipments, Anutin stated, "I have already answered that."