Russian Ambassador to Cambodia Rejects Claims of Russian Mercenaries Fighting for Cambodia

Russian Ambassador to Cambodia Rejects Claims of Russian Mercenaries Fighting for Cambodia

Phnom Penh, 16 December 2025 — The Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the Kingdom of Cambodia, H.E. Anatoly Borovik, has categorically rejected allegations circulated by Thai sources claiming that Russian nationals are serving as mercenaries for Cambodia in the ongoing armed conflict triggered by Thailand’s aggression against Cambodian territory.

Ambassador Borovik dismissed the claims during a press conference on 16 December 2025, held to brief the media on Russia’s foreign policy outcomes. Responding to the Thai allegations, he stated unequivocally: “Thailand’s statement? There has never been any such information. There is absolutely no evidence. If Thailand makes accusations based on false information, it wastes a great deal of time. I have no further comment.”

In parallel, the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Bangkok has also issued a clarification, stressing that reports by certain Thai media outlets alleging the involvement of Russian nationals as mercenaries in the Cambodia–Thailand border conflict are entirely unfounded and false.

The Russian Embassy emphasized that such claims appear to be fabricated by external sources outside the region and warned that these baseless accusations could endanger the rights and safety of Russian citizens in Thailand, including tourists and businesspersons, while also undermining the long-standing friendly relations between Russia and Thailand.

Russia reaffirmed that it maintains friendly relations and constructive cooperation with both Cambodia and Thailand, and consistently supports a peaceful resolution to the border dispute through dialogue and diplomatic means.

Thailand launched its armed aggression against Cambodia on 7 December 2025. While Cambodia has welcomed calls from the international community for a peaceful settlement, the Thai side has repeatedly rejected such initiatives.

Thailand’s armed aggression against Cambodia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity has resulted in severe humanitarian consequences. Thai forces have employed heavy weaponry, including fighter jets and aerial bombardment, targeting not only military positions but also civilian populations. More than 127,000 children have been forced to flee with their families, abandoning their homes, schools, and communities.

As of 2:00 p.m. on 15 December 2025, Thailand’s attacks on Cambodian territory — including deliberate strikes against civilians — have resulted in 15 civilian deaths, 73 injuries, and the displacement of 409,293 people.

The situation continues to draw grave concern from the international community amid calls for restraint, accountability, and an immediate return to peaceful dialogue.