Cambodia lodges protest over Thai military activities in disputed border areas

PHNOM PENH, Jan 21, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has lodged a formal protest with Thailand over what it described as military activities in disputed border areas that undermine de escalation efforts agreed last month.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Wednesday it had sent a diplomatic note objecting to actions by Thai armed forces that it said were inconsistent with measures outlined in the joint statement of the Cambodia–Thailand General Border Committee signed on December 27.

According to the ministry, the activities took place on January 19 in areas Cambodia considers under occupation, threatening its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The alleged actions include the installation of a Buddha statue in Preah Vihear province’s An Ses area, where Cambodia says a Vishnu statue was previously destroyed by Thai troops.

Thai forces were also accused of blocking road access with shipping containers and constructing bunkers in Banteay Meanchey province’s Boeung Trakoun area.

Cambodia urged Thailand to fully implement the December agreement and other arrangements aimed at easing tensions and restoring peace.

The ministry reiterated that border issues must be resolved peacefully under international law and bilateral accords, stressing that boundaries cannot be altered by force.

Relations have been strained since clashes in December, prompting bilateral mechanisms and ASEAN observers to monitor the ceasefire.