The recent military coup in Thailand that ousted the government of Yingluck Shinawatra has attracted concern and controversy. Very visibly the United States, the European Union and Australia have criticized the situation, called for elections to be held as soon as possible, and imposed measures to express their disapproval. Others have been quieter, notably the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and China.
From the U.S., high-level criticism came from Secretary of State John Kerry and Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel. Americans suspended almost one-third of its $3.5 million in military aid. This is a significant signal, given that Thailand is a strategic non-NATO ally.
The Europeans suspended official visits to the country as well as the broad Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, while Australia downgraded diplomatic and military ties. Much of this is to be expected.