Thai Airways monitors Thai–Cambodian border tensions, keeps flights running and stands ready to help bring Thai nationals home if needed. PATTAYA, Thailand – Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) has announced adjustments to its Bangkok–Phnom Penh flight services from 27–31 July 2025, while also confirming it is closely monitoring the security situation along the Thai–Cambodian border. – Flights TG586/TG587 on the Bangkok–Phnom Penh–Bangkok route will continue to operate as scheduled, though with a change in aircraft to one offering increased seating capacity. – Flights TG584/TG585 on the same route will be temporarily suspended during this period. Mr. Chai Eamsiri, Chief Executive Officer of Thai Airways, stated that the airline is closely assessing the developing situation at the Thai–Cambodian border in coordination with the Royal Thai Embassy in Cambodia. Discussions are also underway with other airlines operating in Cambodia to determine possible joint responses if necessary. At this stage, Thai Airways continues to operate flights to Phnom Penh as scheduled. The current seat booking volume on the Phnom Penh route stands at approximately 3,000. The airline emphasized its ongoing responsibility to support and care for its passengers. In the event of any directive from Thai government authorities to assist Thai nationals in returning home, Thai Airways confirmed it is fully prepared to provide support and coordinate repatriation efforts. Currently, THAI has only a limited number of staff stationed in Cambodia, most of whom are foreign nationals. The airline is expected to reassess its contingency plans in the afternoon today, depending on how the situation evolves. Passengers can check flight status or obtain more information through the THAI Contact Center at +66 (0)2 356 1111 (available 24 hours), or contact the Thai Airways Phnom Penh office at: +855 (0)99 99 93 02 +855 (0)99 99 94 02 +855 (0)99 99 90 42 +855 (0)12 64 82 62 +855 (0)12 95 93 45 Thai Airways apologizes for any inconvenience caused and affirms its commitment to the highest standards of safety and service.

Thai police arrest suspected Cambodian spy in Surin amid escalating border tensions. SURIN/PATTAYA — Thai police and security forces in Surin province apprehended a Cambodian spy on July 27, intensifying concerns over espionage amid ongoing clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border. The suspect was arrested at Ban Ta Miang, Phanom Dong Rak district, driving a bronze Toyota Vios bearing license plate from Sa Kaeo province. Authorities say the suspect was secretly photographing key locations to relay information to Cambodia during the border conflict. Investigations are ongoing. In response to rising threats, the Royal Thai Police have issued a public warning urging citizens to remain alert for espionage activities that could compromise national security. Pol. Maj. Gen. Siriwat Deepho, Deputy Spokesperson of the Royal Thai Police Bureau, stressed the seriousness of such acts, which can carry the death penalty under the Penal Code. Police outlined five key signs for the public to watch for: Secretly photographing or filming military bases, strategic sites, or transport routes. Monitoring troop movements or military deployments without permission. Frequent or suspicious photography or surveying in restricted areas. Unauthorized entry into restricted or evacuated zones, especially at unusual hours. Carrying suspicious equipment such as binoculars, strategic maps, or GPS devices. Authorities urge anyone who notices suspicious behavior or individuals to report immediately to local police, military, or via the 24-hour hotlines 191 and 1599. “These espionage activities threaten the safety of our officials and citizens, as well as national security,” Pol. Maj. Gen. Siriwat said. “We call on all members of the public to cooperate closely with security agencies during this critical time.” The recent arrest in Surin underscores the urgency of community vigilance as tensions remain high along the Thai-Cambodian border. Authorities urge public vigilance as espionage threats raise security concerns near Thai-Cambodian border. Five key tips issued to help citizens identify and report suspicious activities linked to spying.   Community cooperation vital to safeguarding national security during ongoing border clashes.

In the wake of deadly Thai-Cambodian border clashes, Pattaya officials tighten security at government offices, shopping malls, and tourist hotspots, urging public vigilance while reassuring visitors of safety measures in place. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand — Authorities in Chonburi province, including the resort city of Pattaya, have been placed on heightened alert following deadly clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border that have left at least 15 people dead and displaced more than 130,000 civilians. In response to the escalating violence, Chonburi issued an urgent directive (dated 24 July 2025), instructing local government heads, district chiefs, and municipal leaders to intensify surveillance and security protocols. The order specifically mentions the need to monitor potential threats to public safety and national stability stemming from the conflict. The directive calls for strict security measures at government buildings, religious sites, economic hubs, industrial zones, oil depots, transportation terminals, airports, ports, shopping centers, and major tourist destinations — including Pattaya — to avoid any negative impact on the province’s tourism image. Authorities have also been instructed to inspect CCTV systems and ensure all communications equipment is fully operational. Emergency response plans must be ready for activation. Local officials urge hotel operators, shopkeepers, and residents in Pattaya to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity, as heightened security measures take effect across Chonburi in response to the border conflict. In addition, private sector cooperation is being sought — including hotels, businesses, restaurants, fertilizer and chemical retailers, construction suppliers, and shopping malls. Local citizen networks have been asked to report any suspicious individuals or activities that could be linked to potential acts of violence. Residents and tourists alike are urged to remain calm, follow official news sources, and refrain from spreading unverified information that may cause public confusion or inflame tensions. Officials also warn the public to be vigilant of unfamiliar individuals entering communities, as some may attempt to exploit the crisis through various forms of criminal activity. The alert comes as national attention remains focused on the Cambodian border, where the situation continues to develop.

A Sea of Red, White, and Blue — Pattaya’s hillside sign lights up with the Thai flag, sending a message of unity and sovereignty. PATTAYA, Thailand – The iconic “PATTAYA CITY” sign on Pratamnak Hill was illuminated this week in the vibrant red, white, and blue of the Thai national flag, delivering a powerful message of national pride and sovereignty. The display was commissioned by Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet, who instructed city departments to light the sign as a symbol of Thai identity and a firm declaration: “This land shall not be invaded.” “This is a proud nation that will never submit,” said a city official. “It’s more than just lights — it’s a statement to the world about who we are.” The timing of the illumination is especially poignant amid ongoing tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border. City officials say the lighting serves to reaffirm Thai unity and patriotism during these sensitive times. “This land belongs to Thailand and will not be violated,” echoed one social media comment, capturing the widespread patriotic sentiment. “This Land Shall Not Be Invaded” — Mayor Poramet orders patriotic lighting to showcase Thailand’s proud, independent spirit. Residents and tourists alike admired the colorful display. “It’s not just beautiful,” one local posted online, “it’s a reminder that Thailand stands strong.” Others praised the view from afar, calling it one of the most striking national displays Pattaya has seen in recent years. The response on social media was overwhelmingly positive, with comments such as: “Pattaya is so beautiful!” “Outstanding — Thailand, keep fighting!” “The best view from the beach!” “Please keep this lighting forever — it gives tourists something memorable and proud to take home.” From the beach to the skyline, the message is clear: Pattaya is glowing with Thai pride — and it’s not afraid to show it. Locals cheer the display — “Pattaya is beautiful,” “So elegant,” and “Thailand, fight on!” flood social media.   More Than Just Lights — The display becomes a photo-worthy symbol of Thailand’s national pride seen from beach to skyline.

Junichi (Jay) Konno notes the 4 areas he will talk about in describing Beautiful Exotic Japan which he hopes will encourage will encourage members of his audience to visit his homeland. On July 23, 2025, Junichi (Jay) and Miyoko (Mykonos) Konno delighted their audience at the Pattaya City Expats Club (PCEC) with their comprehensive presentation on the cultural richness, seasonal attractions, festivals, cuisine, of Japan. The duo, who recently immigrated to Thailand, shared their extensive knowledge and passion for Japan, offering valuable insights and travel tips. Jay highlighted Japan’s four distinct seasons, each offering unique experiences. Spring is renowned for hanami, the cherry blossom viewing parties, with iconic sites like Kimi Castle. Summer brings vibrant festivals such as Bon Odori, Awa Odori, and Nabata Matsuri. Autumn is marked by spectacular leaf color changes in Kyoto, Nara, and Nikko, while winter offers excellent skiing resorts in Hokkaido and Yamagata, along with the famous Sapporo Snow Festival. Jay introduced additional unique festivals such as Jidai Matsuri, a samurai warrior parade in Kyoto;  Onbashira Matsuri, a thrilling event held every seven years in Nagano; and the Fox Waiting Festival, a rural event where participants dress as foxes and perform a mysterious nighttime parade. The presentation featured several must-visit locations, including Kyoto, known for its historic temples and seasonal beauty; Nara, home to the world’s largest wooden temple, Todai-ji; Hiroshima, famous for the floating red torii gate and the atomic bomb museum; and Himeji, renowned for Himeji Castle. Other notable destinations include the Tateyama Alpine Route, Shirakawago, and the ninja museum in Ega Weno. MC Ren Lexander presents the PCEC’s Certificate of Appreciation to Jay and Mykonos Konno for their wonderful presentation on the exotic beauty of Japan. Mykonos covered various Japanese foods beyond sushi and sashimi. Highlights included Wagyu beef, takoyaki, zunda mochi, motsu-nabe, mentaiko, live squid sashimi, katsuo tataki, and unagi kabayaki. The diversity of ramen broths across Japan was also explained, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the country. They concluded their talk by mentioning the advantages of investing in Japanese real estate, citing reasonable prices due to a weak yen, a stable market, high-quality earthquake-resistant buildings, and comprehensive property management services. MC Ren Lexander then brought everyone up to date about future speakers. This was followed by the Open Forum, where audience members can ask questions or make comments about Expat living in Thailand, especially Pattaya.  To learn more about the PCEC visit their website at www.pcec.club. To view a video of Jany and Mykonos presentation, visit the PCEC’s YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbQmrkTE6zI&t=75s.

Thailand launches new Strategic Direction for 2026. BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand has officially launched a bold new tourism strategy for 2026 under the powerful theme “Value is the New Volume,” signalling a major shift from mass tourism to a more meaningful, inclusive, and sustainable travel model. With over 18.08 million international visitors and 1.4 trillion Baht in tourism revenue already generated in 2025, the Kingdom is now charting a course toward long-term prosperity rooted in quality, trust, and cultural identity. The strategic unveiling was hosted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) under the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok. A Shift in Vision: From Popularity to Purpose Minister Thienthong stated, “Tourism is no longer just about numbers—it’s about trust, value, and inclusivity. Thailand is not simply bouncing back, but building forward—with safety, innovation, and sustainable growth as the foundation for a new era of Thai tourism.” Thailand’s new direction embraces five transformative paradigms: New Customers – Focus on millennials, Gen Z, luxury, and wellness travellers. New Products – Highlight cultural, creative, and experience-led tourism. New Partnerships – Collaborate across sectors for broader impact. New Marketing – Shift from promotion to emotional storytelling. New KPIs – Redefine success beyond arrival numbers. The government has backed the plan with a 4.5-billion-Baht investment to fuel 22 strategic initiatives. TAT’s 2026 Mission: Building The New Thailand TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool introduced the 2026 strategy as a paradigm shift that redefines tourism success based on value, balance, and long-term impact. The four pillars of this strategy include: Value Over Volume – Precision marketing and deep understanding of traveller preferences. Balanced Tourism – Promoting year-round travel across all regions of Thailand. Creative & Thematic Experiences – Niche offerings that appeal to diverse interests. Sustainability – Integrating responsible travel as a measurable standard. “Our Stay Focus approach will emphasize authentic experiences for visitors and tangible benefits for Thai communities,” she said. “Tourism will not only bring joy but lasting prosperity.” Targeting High-Value Markets and Segments Under the “New Million Market” initiative, TAT will prioritize: China & Hong Kong – Rebuilding trust and expanding to new cities. India, Japan, Malaysia, South Korea, Singapore – Short-haul growth markets. USA, UK, France, Germany, Russia – Long-haul, high-value travellers. Middle East – Tailored wellness and luxury offerings. Emerging markets such as Vietnam, Taiwan, and Indonesia will also be tapped with new segmentation strategies. Communications will evolve to purpose-driven storytelling under the banner “Unforgettable Experience” and a global positioning that “Healing is the New Luxury.” Thailand will be marketed not just as a scenic destination, but as a sanctuary for emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. (l-r) Minister of Tourism and Sports Sorawong Thienthong, Minister of Culture Paetongtarn Shinawatra, and TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool at the launch. Domestic Tourism Takes Centre Stage While the global market is crucial, domestic tourism remains equally important. Campaigns like “The Grand Moment” will encourage Thais to travel with purpose—highlighting moments of connection with family, nature, and culture. Experiences will target three main groups: Millennials, high-end travellers, and multi-generational families. Regional themes will reflect local strengths: Central: music festivals & luxury escapes North: seasonal storytelling & culture East: gastronomy & soft adventure South: nature-based wellness Northeast: deep traditions & local pride TAT will also promote signature cultural routes in Sukhothai, Phetchaburi, and Suphan Buri, aligning with UNESCO’s Creative Cities network. Innovations in Travel, Quality, and Connectivity Thailand is enhancing connectivity through new land, sea, rail, and air routes, including Mekong cruises, themed trains, and even private air travel. Flagship programs like TAT Certified (STGs STAR & STAR Plus) and CF Hotels will ensure service excellence, while the new Trusted Thailand Safe Travel Stamp, launching this August, aims to provide global confidence in Thai tourism standards. Krabi, continuing as a sustainable tourism prototype under the “Blue Zones” concept, will showcase 10 certified routes on the international stage. Cultural Events & Global Festivals Major festivals and sports events are being positioned as emotional drivers for tourism, such as: Tomorrowland Thailand 2026 Maha Songkran World Water Festival Amazing Thailand Countdown Vijitr Chao Phraya light festival Honda LPGA Thailand World Wai Kru Muay Thai Ceremony Homegrown celebrations like the Nakhon Phanom Fire Boat Festival, Ubon Ratchathani Candle Procession, and Christmas Star Parade in Sakon Nakhon are key to showcasing Thailand’s rich cultural soft power. Thailand’s Tourism Future In closing, Governor Thapanee emphasized: “In 2026, success will be defined not solely by arrival numbers, but by the quality of experiences delivered and Thailand’s rise as one of the world’s top 15 tourism economies. This is our moment to shift from popularity to purpose.” With collaboration, sustainability, and identity at the core, Thailand is ready to become not just a place to visit—but a destination of enduring value.

พัทยาเปิดไฟ PATTAYA CITY เป็นลายธงชาติไทย ส่งกำลังใจแนวชายแดน ท่ามกลางสถานการณ์สู้รบไทย-กัมพูชา เมืองพัทยา จังหวัดชลบุรี แสดงพลังแห่งความสามัคคีและห่วงใยต่อทหารและประชาชนในพื้นที่ชายแดน ด้วยการประดับไฟ “PATTAYA CITY” ให้เป็นลวดลายธงชาติไทย สื่อถึงความรักชาติและเป็นกำลังใจแก่เจ้าหน้าที่ที่ปฏิบัติภารกิจปกป้องแผ่นดิน ท่ามกลางสถานการณ์ความตึงเครียดจากการปะทะกันระหว่างประเทศไทยและประเทศกัมพูชา ทั้งนี้ สถานที่ท่องเที่ยวสำคัญหลายแห่งในเมืองพัทยา รวมถึงศูนย์การค้าเซ็นทรัล พัทยา ต่างพร้อมใจจัดแสดงแสงไฟประดับรอบอาคารในลวดลาย “ธงชาติไทย” อย่างสวยงาม สร้างบรรยากาศแห่งพลังใจและการรวมพลังของคนไทยทั้งชาติ สำหรับการประดับไฟในครั้งนี้ มิได้เป็นเพียงเพื่อความสวยงามเท่านั้น แต่ยังแฝงความหมายลึกซึ้งในการร่วมส่งกำลังใจให้เจ้าหน้าที่ทหารไทยที่ประจำการอยู่แนวชายแดน ให้สามารถปฏิบัติหน้าที่ด้วยความปลอดภัย และยืนหยัดรักษาอธิปไตยของประเทศชาติไว้ได้อย่างมั่นคง ทั้งนี้ เมืองพัทยาขอเชิญชวนประชาชนร่วมกันส่งกำลังใจให้เจ้าหน้าที่และผู้ได้รับผลกระทบ พร้อมร่วมกันเป็นพลังแห่งความสามัคคีในยามที่ประเทศชาติเผชิญสถานการณ์สำคัญนี้

Nongprue police arrest drug dealer in undercover sting operationLegacyIn a coordinated operation on July 27, 2025, led by Banglamung District Chief Patcharapat Sritanyanon, a 24 year old drug dealer, Thanawat Suksamai, known as Two, was arrested in Nongprue, Chon Buri. The sting operation took place in a rented room in Soi Khao Talo 8, where Thanawat was found with 37.3 grams of ketamine, 0.6 grams of crystal methamphetamine, and various drug paraphernalia, including a scale and plastic zip-lock bags. The operation, under the direction of Wanchai Wannaprom, head of the district’s administrative division, was a collaborative effort involving local officials and officers from Nongprue Police Station. Officers Kamphrai Laosaen, Nathaphop Yomjinda, Natthawat Sophonsewatsilp, and Tharit Janchareun participated in the task force. The arrest followed intelligence gathered after a drug user was detained on July 26, leading to an undercover operation aimed at Thanawat, who was noted for supplying drugs to local youths, especially those in hostess bars. An undercover agent facilitated a sting by arranging to purchase 5,000 baht (US$154) worth of ketamine from Thanawat. Initially cautious, Thanawat sought to verify the buyer but eventually agreed to the transaction. Following the exchange of drugs and marked cash, the agent signalled the task force to move in, leading to Thanawat’s arrest without any resistance. A search of his room revealed additional drugs in plain view, which were confiscated along with the marked 5,000 baht. During the interrogation, Thanawat admitted to the charges, confessing that the drugs were his. He shared that after a failed attempt at running a mala business, he resorted to drug dealing for financial reasons. He mentioned that his primary clientele comprised young bar workers and claimed that a larger drug stash belonged to a friend he could no longer reach. Expressing regret, Thanawat warned others against getting involved with drugs, reported The Pattaya News. Thanawat was subsequently handed over to Nongprue Police Station for further investigation and legal proceedings. Efforts to dismantle drug networks in the Banglamung area continue, with a focus on preventing the spread of narcotics among the local youth. Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News The story Nongprue police arrest drug dealer in undercover sting operation as seen on Thaiger News.

While headlines highlight border skirmishes and political rhetoric, the true impact of the Thai-Cambodian clash runs deeper — within the complex web of regional trade, taxation policy, supply chains, and foreign investor confidence. While the headlines focus on the border skirmishes and political rhetoric, the true impact of the Thai-Cambodian clash lies deeper within the intricate web of regional trade, taxation policy, supply chains, and foreign investor confidence. As of July 24, 2025, what began as a localized military engagement has swiftly evolved into a transnational economic risk affecting not only border communities but the entire Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), ASEAN logistics networks, and Thailand’s export-import architecture. Border Bombs, Broken Borders Logistics at Risk The immediate economic casualty is cross-border trade. The Thai-Cambodian border sees an average of 16 billion baht in bilateral trade per month, with Surin, Sa Kaeo, and Ubon Ratchathani acting as key logistics nodes for agricultural commodities, construction materials, and consumer goods. As of now: All checkpoints have been closed indefinitely, disrupting overland cargo shipments. Thai SMEs relying on raw materials (e.g., timber, cassava, garments from Cambodia) now face delayed production. Cambodian exporters of low-cost labor-intensive goods especially to Thai border processing zones are cut off. This disruption may cause a 2–3% quarterly contraction in border-dependent industries if tensions continue past August. Tax Revenue and Customs Fallout Thailand’s Customs Department collects substantial excise and import duties from overland trade with Cambodia mainly on fuel, alcohol, processed food, and machinery. With cross-border movement halted, an estimated loss of 1.2–1.5 billion baht per month in customs revenue is projected. VAT refund delays are expected to increase for exporters operating under AFTA and bilateral trade agreements, affecting liquidity of Thai traders. Special Economic Zones (SEZs) along the border, granted incentives under BOI and IEAT regulations, face operational paralysis and possible downgrade in investment attractiveness. Investor Confidence and Capital Flight The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) experienced a minor dip on the morning of July 24, particularly in logistics, retail, and regional banking sectors. But the real risk is foreign direct investment (FDI) Cambodia has increasingly been part of Thailand’s “China+1” strategy, where Thai firms establish low-cost factories in Cambodia to serve as subcontracting arms. Multinationals, especially in textiles and electronics, are now reconsidering Cambodian operations, while risk-averse capital may pivot to Vietnam or Indonesia. Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), which banks on regional connectivity and multimodal logistics, now faces reputational risks as a “frontline logistics hub.” Tariff and Trade Policy Implications Beyond physical disruption, the conflict undermines trust in long-term tariff cooperation under ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA) and Cambodia-Thailand Bilateral Framework. Cambodian authorities are likely to impose retaliatory import restrictions or delay cargo clearance of Thai goods. Thai exporters of construction materials, processed food, and household items may lose market share to Vietnamese and Chinese competitors in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Longer term, trade facilitation policies such as “National Single Window” integration and preferential duty waivers may be paused or revised. Conclusion: Short-Term Volatility, Long-Term Realignment While central banks and finance ministries may downplay the macro impact, the Thai-Cambodian conflict exposes the fragility of regional trade interdependence without robust conflict buffers. If the situation escalates beyond two weeks, Thailand risks: Losing ground as a preferred hub for regional value chains. A downgrade in ease-of-doing-business metrics, particularly for border-related sectors. Postponement or redirection of FDI flows, especially from Japanese and Korean firms. In a world where “geopolitical risk” is now embedded into financial modeling, the lesson is clear: bombs may explode at the borders, but the real damage detonates in spreadsheets, tax ledgers, and investor dashboards. Victor Wong (Peerasan Wongsri) Victor Law Pattaya/Finance & Tax Expert Email: <[email protected]> Tel. 062-8795414

Thai refugees shelter from Cambodian artillery and rockets. (Photo: courtesy of Reuters) The Senate committee on military and national security has criticized any move to use economic negotiations as an inducement to end border disputes with Cambodia. The acting prime minister of Thailand and the Cambodian premier meet later today in Malaysia after Trump cited an end to military action as a prerequisite to, maybe, reducing 36 percent tariffs on Thai and Cambodian exports to US due August 1. Chaiyong Maneerungsakul, Senate committee spokesman, told Bangkok Post that taxation matters should not be entangled with armed conflict between the two neighbors. He expressed concern that Trump’s golf club remarks could be interpreted as indirect coercion and suggested extreme caution when dealing with third parties such as the American or Chinese government. Cambodia, in advance of the Malaysian meeting, has stated a ceasefire should not have military preconditions. But the Thai government has said it wants to see positive proof that Cambodia is serious about de-escalation by withdrawing her troops and artillery from contested border areas. Diplomats say that the process is complicated and unlikely to be resolved in one short meeting. Meanwhile, the clock ticks inexorably towards Trump’s time deadline. The Thai position is that the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) is the right place to seek a territorial solution. However, Cambodia chose unilaterally to refer the dispute to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in Holland on the very day, May 29, that the JBC meeting was held. Phnom Penh is well aware that Thailand does not accept as binding all ICJ judgments, the same position held by US, Israel, Russia, China, UK and others in other controversies. Both sides deny being the first to open fire in the current spats which began in late May. But Thai military officers say that Cambodian civilians persisted with provocative acts such as singing their national anthem and hoisting Cambodian flags at controversial temple sites. Meanwhile, ex-Cambodian prime minister Hun Sen leaked details of a confidential phone call and lost revenue from scam centers and casinos when the Thai military closed the borders. In the last few weeks, there have been multiple deaths and injuries of soldiers and civilians on both sides, whilst tit-for-tat measures have been stepped up. These have included downgrading diplomatic relations and withdrawing electricity supplies and wifi connections at land borders. A spokesperson for Marco Rubio, the US secretary of state, said he was waiting to hear the results of the meeting between the Thai and Cambodian leaders later today. He denied that the two countries were being forced into a settlement as Trump has confirmed that both Bangkok and Phnom Penh were keen to end hostilities. Critics say Trump followed a similar bargaining strategy, which failed, in the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.