US Resumes Military Ties with Cambodia Amid Rising Tensions with China
The Trump administration has lifted the arms embargo on Cambodia and resumed military exercises, signaling a strengthening of defense ties amid rising tensions with China. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth met with Cambodian Deputy PM Tea Seiha to discuss cooperation, while the US provided $45 million in assistance to the region. Despite improving relations, the delay in the US ambassador's confirmation raises concerns about the US commitment to Cambodia.
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The Trump administration has lifted the arms embargo on Cambodia and resumed military exercises, previously halted in 2017. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth met with Cambodian Deputy PM Tea Seiha to reinstate defense cooperation.
Cambodia's economy is struggling due to tariffs and declining tourism. The US remains Cambodia's largest export market, while China is its main trading partner. Hegseth announced military exercises at the strategically vital Ream Naval Base, which China has supported.
Cambodian PM Hun Manet noted improving US-Cambodian relations and discussions on combating transnational crime. The US provided $45 million in assistance to Cambodia and Thailand. The US seized $15 billion in bitcoin linked to a Cambodian business associate, Vincent Chen Zhi, who was extradited to China. The US ambassador's confirmation remains delayed, raising questions about US commitment in the region.
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