Marie Harf
Deputy Department Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
In response to the military coup in Thailand, we continue to review our military and other assistance and engagements, consistent with U.S. law.
In addition to our previously announced suspension of foreign assistance to Thailand, the Department of Defense announced today the cancellation of Exercise CARAT, which had been underway, and some senior level exchanges. We have 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.