Trump May Impose Sanctions “If Necessary to Stop the Killing” as Thailand Defies Ceasefire Call, Karoline Leavitt

Thailand’s acting Prime Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul

Washington, D.C., 13 December 2025 — The White House announced on Saturday, 13 December 2025, that U.S. President Donald J. Trump is prepared to “impose sanctions if necessary to stop the killing,” following Thailand’s defiance and refusal to comply with a newly proposed ceasefire—an initiative led by Washington to de-escalate the ongoing armed conflict along the Cambodia–Thailand border.

According to Reuters, a White House spokesperson, Karoline Leavitt, stated that President Trump expects all parties to fully honor the commitments they have made by signing relevant agreements. The spokesperson emphasized that the President “will impose sanctions on certain parties if necessary to halt the violence and ensure long-term peace.”

Despite this international appeal, Thailand’s acting Prime Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, rejected the call and issued a defiant response, asserting that no ceasefire agreement has been implemented. He further stated that Thailand would continue its military operations regardless of international calls for restraint.

Reports indicate that Thai fighter jets launched new attacks on additional targets near the border just hours after the announcement by the U.S. President, further intensifying concerns over escalating hostilities and the undermining of international diplomatic efforts to restore peace.

The situation has drawn growing international attention as calls intensify for immediate restraint, adherence to international commitments, and the protection of civilian lives, amid fears of further escalation and humanitarian consequences in the border regions.