Cambodia Denies Thai Allegations of Heavy Weapons, Urges ASEAN Review of Border Clashes

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 8, 2025) — Cambodia rejected fresh allegations from Thailand’s 2nd Army Area that it moved heavy weapons to the frontier, warning the claims risk inflaming tensions along the sensitive border.

In a statement issued late Sunday and into early Monday, the Ministry of National Defense said it had monitored what it called an “active campaign of misinformation” from the Thai 2nd Army Area’s official social media page. The ministry said the page alleged Cambodia had deployed “heavy and destructive weapons and equipment” along the border, prompting some Thai media outlets to repeat the claims.

Spokesperson Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata called the allegations “entirely false” and accused Thailand of manipulating public opinion. She said spreading unverified military reports could serve as a pretext for escalation following several border incidents earlier in the week.

“The information being circulated does not reflect the situation on the ground and directly contradicts the truth,” Socheata said, adding that Cambodian troops remain in full compliance with all agreements, including the cease-fire and the Joint Declaration on Peace.

The ministry issued two clarifications: no Cambodian units had moved heavy weapons to border positions, and Cambodian forces had not engaged in any actions violating the cease-fire.

Cambodia previously accused Thai forces of launching several attacks in Preah Vihear province on Dec. 7, including small-arms and mortar fire in Choam Khsant district. Cambodia said its troops refrained from returning fire to avoid escalation and has notified the ASEAN Observer Team for the second time, requesting a formal investigation.

Socheata reiterated Cambodia’s commitment to peace and stability.

“Cambodia continues to uphold its commitment to peace and remains fully dedicated to implementing the cease-fire agreement and the Joint Declaration on Peace,” she said.