Russian Ambassador to Cambodia Refutes Mercenary Allegations Amid Border Tensions

In a statement made during a press conference on December 16, 2025, Anatoly Borovik, the Russian Ambassador to Cambodia, denied reports from Thai media claiming that Russian citizens were serving as mercenaries in the ongoing border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand. Borovik, who addressed the media regarding Russia’s foreign policy, emphasized that there was no credible evidence to support the allegations and urged against spreading false information.

Thai Media Reports Prompt Strong Denial

The reports, which originated from certain Thai outlets, suggested that Russian nationals were participating as mercenaries in the military skirmishes on the Cambodian-Thai border. These claims, according to Ambassador Borovik, are entirely baseless.

“The announcement from Thailand? There has never been such information. No evidence exists,” Borovik clarified during the conference. “If Thailand accuses us with fake information, we will waste a lot of time. I will not comment further.”

The Russian Embassy in Bangkok also echoed these sentiments, issuing a statement refuting the claims. The embassy underscored that the allegations were not only false but also damaging to the rights of Russian citizens living in Thailand, particularly those residing as tourists or businesspeople. Additionally, such reports could jeopardize the long-standing diplomatic and economic ties between Russia and Thailand.

Diplomatic Ties and Commitment to Peace

Despite the heightened tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, the Russian Embassy maintains strong, cooperative relationships with both nations. In its official response, the embassy reiterated its support for peaceful dialogue and a diplomatic resolution to the border dispute.

Borovik further expressed Russia’s deep concern over the escalating violence between the two Southeast Asian neighbors, particularly the heavy use of weapons along the border. The ambassador called for both sides to exercise restraint in order to prevent further civilian casualties and to seek a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

“We express our deep concern over the clashes on the Cambodian-Thai border with the heavy use of weapons,” Borovik said. “We call on both sides to exercise restraint to prevent further civilian deaths and injuries and to seek dialogue to find a ceasefire for lasting peace between the two countries, respecting the Kuala Lumpur Joint Statement.”

Call for Dialogue and Ceasefire

The Russian diplomat’s call for dialogue highlights Russia’s longstanding commitment to conflict resolution through peaceful means. The Kuala Lumpur Joint Statement, which Borovik referenced, is a crucial agreement that supports diplomatic measures and peaceful solutions to regional conflicts.

As both Cambodia and Thailand have faced mounting pressure from the international community to resolve the border dispute, the need for a ceasefire and a negotiated solution has never been more urgent. Russia, a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, is in a unique position to advocate for de-escalation and encourage dialogue between the two countries.

The Context of the Cambodian-Thai Border Conflict

The Cambodian-Thai border has been a site of contention for decades, with disputes over territorial sovereignty and the management of shared natural resources. In recent months, tensions have flared once again, with clashes between Cambodian and Thai forces resulting in casualties on both sides. While the situation has not yet escalated to full-scale warfare, the use of heavy weaponry has raised concerns about the potential for further violence.

The involvement of foreign nationals, such as the claims about Russian mercenaries, has added another layer of complexity to the conflict. However, the Russian Embassy has made it clear that it does not condone any form of foreign intervention in the dispute, particularly mercenary activity that could further exacerbate the situation.

Looking Ahead: A Call for Restraint

Ambassador Borovik’s statement reflects Russia’s broader foreign policy priorities, which emphasize diplomacy, dialogue, and peaceful conflict resolution. As tensions between Cambodia and Thailand continue to simmer, the international community, including Russia, is closely monitoring the situation.

For now, the call for a ceasefire and meaningful negotiations remains the most viable path to lasting peace. The Russian Embassy’s continued advocacy for diplomacy underscores the importance of maintaining strong international relationships while working toward a resolution that respects the sovereignty and rights of all parties involved.