Former US President Donald Trump has expanded his influence across Southeast Asia by brokering peace between Thailand and Cambodia and signing new trade agreements with Malaysia and Cambodia during the ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur.
The landmark Kuala Lumpur Peace Accords ended decades of conflict between Thailand and Cambodia after Trump’s intervention in July helped halt deadly border clashes. Both nations agreed to withdraw heavy weapons, clear landmines, and allow ASEAN-led ceasefire monitoring, while Thailand released 18 Cambodian soldiers captured earlier this year.
Alongside the peace accord, Trump finalized trade deals aimed at reducing deficits and boosting US exports. Vietnam also pledged to increase its purchases of American goods to help balance trade flows. Analysts say Trump’s assertive use of tariffs and trade leverage has pressured Southeast Asian economies to align more closely with Washington, as regional leaders seek to maintain stability and avoid overdependence on China.
While Trump’s actions have drawn criticism for being self-promotional, many Southeast Asian nations view his engagement as essential for regional security and economic growth. His approach has reinforced America’s strategic position in Asia and deepened economic cooperation across key ASEAN states.