(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Senate President, Samdech Techo Hun Sen said that the deployment of military personnel and weaponry to the border is not a preparation for war, but rather a precautionary measure in response to potential assaults by the opposing side. He stressed that Cambodia reserves the right to self-defence in such circumstances.

Samdech Techo spoke on Thursday (May 29) in a special statement addressing the recent armed clash between Cambodian and Thai forces at the Emerald Triangle border area, Preah Vihear province.

“I confirmed this through a post on my official Facebook page. This morning, the prime minister has also acknowledged the troop movement to the border. The mobilisation of our forces and heavy weaponry is not intended for war, but to prepare for potential adverse developments. Should there be any violations from the other side, we have the right to defend ourselves,” Samdech Techo underscored.

“We are not deploying the heavy military equipment—whether it has already arrived or is en route—to launch an attack against Thailand. However, we must be prepared for the worst-case scenario. This is a lesson drawn from our experiences between 2008 and 2021. I wish to inform our compatriots and simultaneously send a message to our Thai neighbours,” Samdech Techo added.

He further noted that the recent outbreak of hostilities along the Cambodia–Thailand border was not believed to be a directive from the Thai government or its Ministry of Defence, but rather the actions of individuals.

It is noteworthy that the clash between Cambodian and Thai forces occurred on 28 May 2025, in Techo Morokot village, Morokot commune, Choam Ksant district, Preah Vihear province. Reports indicate that the incident was triggered when Thai troops opened fire on a long-established Cambodian military post. The attack resulted in the death of Cambodian soldier Suon Ron, aged 48, who held the rank of Warrant Officer and resided in Kampenh village, Yeang commune, Choam Ksant district, Preah Vihear province.

On the evening of 28 May 2025, Samdech Techo Hun Sen publicly condemned the Thai military's aggressive actions at the disputed border area, labelling the incident an incursion. While reiterating his desire to avoid armed confrontation, he expressed his support for the Royal Government’s decision to deploy troops and heavy weaponry to the Cambodia–Thailand border in defence of national sovereignty, should further incursions occur.

Through social media, Samdech Techo Hun Sen also extended his condolences to the family of Suon Ron, expressing deep sorrow for the soldier’s death as a result of the Thai assault.
=FRESH NEWS