A Thai soldier stands guard on a street in Bangkok, Thailand, on Thursday, May 22, 2014. Thailand’s army chief Gen. Prayuth Chan-Ocha assumed the role of mediator Wednesday by summoning the country’s key political rivals for face-to-face talks one day after imposing martial law. The meeting ended without any resolution, however, underscoring the profound challenge the army faces in trying to end the country’s crisis.By THANYARAT DOKSONE
Associated Press
and JOCELYN GECKER
Associated Press
BANGKOK – Thailand’s army chief announced a military takeover of the government Thursday, saying the coup was necessary to restore stability and order after six months of political deadlock and turmoil.