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Cambodia plans to nominate former U.S. President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, citing his role in securing a ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia following days of skirmishes that killed dozens and displaced hundreds of thousands.
Sun Chanthol, Cambodia’s deputy prime minister, praised Trump’s diplomatic efforts, stating that without his intervention, the neighbors might not have reached an agreement to end the fighting. The Southeast Asian nations share a 500-mile land border largely mapped by France during its colonial rule in Cambodia.
U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had previously warned American citizens to be cautious due to the escalating conflict. However, on Monday, both leaders agreed to a truce that has mostly held, with Chanthol highlighting Trump’s role.
According to Reuters, two days into the clashes, U.S. President Donald Trump contacted Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai after Bangkok had not responded to mediation offers from Malaysia and China. After his initial call, both countries agreed to discuss a ceasefire, with Washington postponing tariff negotiations until the conflict ended.
The peace deal was announced in Malaysia on Monday, with leaders of the countries pictured shaking hands.
Trump administration officials have been touting their president’s credentials for the award, including his role in ending conflicts between Thailand and Cambodia; Israel and Iran; Rwanda and Congo; India and Pakistan; Serbia and Kosovo; and Egypt and Ethiopia.
In June, Pakistan announced it would recommend Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize for helping to resolve a conflict with India. In July, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also nominated Trump, praising his “pivotal role” in negotiating diplomatic relations between Israel and Arab states in 2020.
Karoline Leavitt, White House spokesperson, highlighted that during this presidency, Trump had ended conflicts involving multiple countries, including those mentioned above. The nomination process for the Nobel Prize begins in September, with announcements taking place between October 6 and 13.
Update: A White House statement confirmed its support for Trump’s nomination.
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According to the passage, which of the following best describes Donald Trump’s role in the conflict between Thailand and Cambodia?
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