WASHINGTON – The US announced this weekend that in response to the recent overthrow of the government on Thailand by the military, the cancellation of several U.S.-Thailand engagements.
In response to the military coup in Thailand, the US State Department continues to review military and other assistance and engagements, consistent with U.S. law.
In addition to previously announced suspension of foreign assistance to Thailand, the Department of Defense announced the cancellation of Exercise CARAT, which had been underway, and some senior level exchanges. The US also canceled a U.S. Government-sponsored firearms training program in Thailand for the Royal Thai Police that had been slated to begin May 26, as well as a U.S. Government-sponsored study trip to the United States, scheduled for June, for several senior Royal Thai Police officers that would have included visits to FBI facilities and meetings with U.S. law enforcement counterparts.
“We urge the immediate restoration of civilian rule and release of detained political leaders, a return to democracy through early elections, and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms,” a US State Department spokesperson said Saturday.
