Cambodia raises landmine concerns in talks with U.S. officials

PHNOM PENH, Mar. 12, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has voiced concern over the ongoing threat posed by landmines and unexploded ordnance along its border with Thailand, urging sustained international support to tackle the issue.

Senior Minister Ly Thuch, First Vice President of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority, told visiting U.S. officials that clearing mines along the frontier remains a complex challenge requiring significant time and funding.

The meeting at the Mine Authority headquarters included Ethan Rinks, Director of Programs at the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Weapons Reduction and Disposal, and aimed to strengthen humanitarian mine action cooperation.

Ly Thuch expressed gratitude to Washington for decades of support, noting the United States has contributed more than $200 million to mine clearance in Cambodia over the past 30 years.

He warned that unexploded ordnance from past Thai military operations continues to pose risks, particularly to women and children, while reaffirming Cambodia’s commitment under Prime Minister Hun Manet to mitigate the impacts of mines and explosive remnants of war.

Officials described the U.S.–Cambodia partnership as “crucial” for clearing contaminated areas, supporting affected communities and advancing the country’s goal of a safe, mine free environment.