Cambodian strongman Hun Sen has strongly denied recent reports in Thai media, claiming that Russian soldiers and other foreign nationals are participating as foreign mercenaries in fighting for Cambodia.
Hun Sen, in his Facebook post, stressed that such reports are inaccurate and risk damaging the dignity and reputation of Cambodia, as well as those of Russians and other foreigners who have been mentioned in the allegations.
He stated directly that there are no Russian soldiers, or any other foreign military personnel, fighting on Cambodian territory or serving as military advisers to the Cambodian armed forces.
Officials stress that Cambodia has not allowed foreign troops to operate within the country since the withdrawal of the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC) in 1993.
“We have no foreign military forces on the ground in Cambodia… Claims suggesting otherwise do not reflect the reality of Cambodia’s national defense policy,” the statement reads.
He acknowledged that, in the past, Cambodia has hosted foreign military activities, but strictly within internationally accepted frameworks, such as multilateral or bilateral cooperation exercises.
These activities included visits by foreign naval vessels to Cambodian ports, particularly in the waters of Sihanouk Province, and were conducted as part of routine defense cooperation, similar to the practice in many other countries.
The government also recognises that many foreigners, of various nationalities, currently reside in Cambodia. These individuals include investors, tourists, technicians and employees working for both foreign and local companies.
He stressed that these civilians have no involvement in military operations or armed conflict.
He reiterated Cambodia’s commitment to sovereignty, peace and transparency, urging media outlets to verify information carefully to avoid misunderstandings that could affect international relations and public confidence.
