PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (EAC News) — Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation issued a statement Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025, clarifying its position amid recent allegations from Thai officials over the ongoing border tensions.
The ministry’s spokesperson said Cambodian civilians in the disputed areas are victims of unilateral Thai military actions, including blocking access to homes and farmland. The spokesperson denied claims that Cambodia is using civilians as human shields.
The government also reiterated that it has not laid new landmines. “Any incidents involving mines are the result of remnants from past conflicts,” the statement said. Cambodia, which is one of the most mine-affected countries in the world, renewed its commitment to avoid deploying anti-personnel mines.
On human rights, Cambodia reaffirmed its adherence to the UN Charter and international treaties. The government said it continues to cooperate with the United Nations to promote and protect human rights.
The statement stressed Cambodia’s commitment to peaceful resolution. It reaffirmed its support for the ceasefire agreement reached on July 28 in Putrajaya and the General Border Committee’s extraordinary meeting in Kuala Lumpur on Aug. 7.
International support
In a letter dated Aug. 20, U.S. President Donald Trump thanked Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet for nominating him for the Nobel Peace Prize. Trump praised Cambodia’s role in ending hostilities and said he was proud to contribute to the ceasefire.
Prime Minister Hun Manet responded, thanking Trump for his personal efforts, which he credited with helping to save lives and restore peace.
Cambodia marked one month of the ceasefire on Thursday, with officials emphasizing strict compliance with its terms. They highlighted the country’s long-standing pacifist stance and commitment to peace efforts.
Mine explosion incident
The Ministry of National Defence issued a statement about an explosion on Aug. 27 that injured soldiers. The ministry expressed regret and reiterated its pledge not to deploy new mines. It also urged Thailand to honor the ceasefire agreement and respect existing border safety measures.
The Cambodia Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority said the explosion was likely caused by unexploded ordnance from past conflicts, not recent activity. The agency called for continued de-mining efforts and cautioned against unfounded accusations.
Cambodia also remains concerned about 18 military personnel who have been detained unlawfully by Thailand since July 29. Officials called for transparency and resolution of the case in the spirit of good neighborliness.

