Hun Sen: No Russian or Foreign Nationals Involved in Combat or Serving as Military Advisors to Cambodian Armed Forces

Samdech Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate of the Kingdom of Cambodia

Phnom Penh, 16 December 2025 — Samdech Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate of the Kingdom of Cambodia, has categorically rejected reports circulated by certain Thai media outlets alleging the involvement of Russian nationals or other foreign citizens in combat operations or as military advisors to the Cambodian Armed Forces.

In a statement posted on his official social media platforms on 16 December 2025, Samdech Techo Hun Sen clarified that Cambodia has no Russian nationals or foreign citizens participating in battlefield operations or serving as military advisors for its armed forces. He emphasized that these allegations are entirely unfounded and risk undermining the dignity and reputation of Cambodia, the Russian Federation, and other foreign nationals wrongly implicated.

Samdech Techo further stressed that no foreign troops have been stationed on Cambodian territory since the withdrawal of UNTAC in 1993, reaffirming Cambodia’s long-standing policy of safeguarding its sovereignty and independence.

He acknowledged that Cambodia has, from time to time, hosted foreign military personnel for joint or bilateral military exercises, including naval visits through the port of Preah Sihanouk Province. Such activities, he noted, are standard international practice conducted within the framework of lawful defense cooperation, similar to arrangements undertaken by many countries worldwide.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen also clarified that while foreign nationals of various nationalities are currently residing in Cambodia—including tourists, investors, technical experts, and employees of domestic and foreign companies—none are involved in military activities or combat operations.

Cambodia reiterates its commitment to transparency, respect for international norms, and the preservation of its national dignity, while firmly rejecting misinformation that could inflame tensions or mislead the international community.