Fri Dec 12 05:20:30 UTC 2025: News Article: Cambodia Denies Claims of Preparing Chinese Missiles, Using Foreign Fighters Amidst Escalating Border Conflict with Thailand

Phnom Penh, Cambodia – Tensions between Cambodia and Thailand continue to escalate as fighting along their shared border enters its fifth day. Cambodia has vehemently denied accusations from the Thai military and media outlets that it is preparing to launch Chinese-made PHL-03 missiles or employing foreign mercenaries in the ongoing conflict.

The Cambodian Ministry of Defence released statements rejecting the claims as “fake news,” accusing Thailand of attempting to divert attention from its own violations of international law. Specifically, they refuted allegations that Cambodia is using foreigners to operate suicide drones against Thai targets and that it intends to deploy PHL-03 multiple rocket launchers in the border dispute. Cambodia pointed out its existing BM-21 launchers have a far shorter range than the PHL-03, suggesting the accusation is baseless.

The denial comes amidst reports of renewed fighting in multiple Cambodian provinces, with “The Khmer Times” reporting Thai forces opened fire in Oddar Meanchey, Preah Vihear, and Banteay Meanchey provinces. While no new casualties were reported in these latest clashes, the conflict has already claimed the lives of at least 20 people and wounded nearly 200 on both sides of the border since Monday. An estimated 600,000 people have been displaced.

The conflict centers around a long-standing territorial dispute involving historic temples along the 800-kilometer border. Both countries accuse each other of reigniting the conflict.

Adding another layer to the situation, Thailand’s caretaker Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is scheduled to speak with U.S. President Donald Trump, who offered to mediate. Anutin has also dissolved parliament, leading to early elections in Thailand, though he maintains the dissolution will not impact the management of the border conflict.

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