Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul affirmed that the military is ready to protect national sovereignty and praised soldiers injured and killed in the line of duty as "national heroes." The Prime Minister assured the three branches of the armed forces, the police, and the administrative authorities that they are fully prepared to protect national sovereignty and safeguard the people. He emphasized that the military is not complacent ahead of the Cambodian elections, stating that it is always ready and will not be at a disadvantage.

According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul gave an interview after visiting Sergeant Major Charnnarong Wongchana, a member of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit, who was injured by stepping on a PMN-2 anti-personnel landmine near Chong An Ma. The Prime Minister addressed the policy and measures along the Thai-Cambodian border, stating that the military remains fully prepared along the border. He mentioned that he, along with Lieutenant General Adul Boonthamcharoen, Minister of Defence, and General Phana Klaewplodthuk, Commander-in-Chief of the Army, had inspected the border and found everything to be in order and fully prepared. He assured the public that there was no need to worry, as the government and the military are fully protecting Thai territory, and there are no indications of any violence occurring at this time.

When asked by reporters for confirmation that the families of the injured soldiers would be taken care of, the Prime Minister stated that he had to confirm it. The government would fully support national heroes who are injured or killed in the line of duty. The assistance would come from the Prime Minister's Office and the Ministry of Defence. When such incidents occur, we mobilize assistance and explore every possible way to ensure that those affected receive full compensation.

Regarding border security and any special precautions needed ahead of the Cambodian elections, the Prime Minister stated that preparations are underway, and the military is always ready. He emphasized that Thailand's capabilities and preparedness in protecting national sovereignty are never underestimated and assured the public that all three branches of the armed forces, along with the police and local administration responsible for bordering Cambodia, are confident that Thailand is not at a disadvantage. He also requested that the media refrain from asking about specific measures, as they concern national security secrets. When further asked if this would ensure the military would not be in such a precarious situation indefinitely, the Prime Minister simply replied, "Yes."

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