China denies providing weapons to Cambodia during Thailand conflict

Cambodia, engaged in a border conflict with Thailand, finds itself facing allegations that it has received military support from China. The conflict, which has resulted in at least 33 deaths and the displacement of hundreds of thousands, entered its third day with both countries accusing each other of aggressive actions. China’s Senior Colonel Sheng Wei stated that all military equipment currently with Cambodia is from previous cooperation projects and denied claims of new supplies for military use against Thailand. Amid speculations of Chinese involvement, Thailand's UN ambassador condemned Cambodia's actions, asserting they were aggressive and constituted serious breaches of international law. Cambodia, in response, called for immediate ceasefire talks, arguing that as a smaller nation lacking an air force, it could not have initiated conflicts against a larger military force such as Thailand. The tension escalated following airstrikes exchanged between the two neighboring nations over contested territories, including areas surrounding the ancient Ta Muen Thom temple. Despite accusations flying back and forth—Thailand charging Cambodia with indiscriminate attacks on civilians while Cambodia's leaders condemned Thailand for indiscriminate artillery use—both sides maintain they acted in self-defense. In light of these clashes, Thailand expressed outrage towards Cambodia's supposed laying of landmines, calling for military responses, while Cambodia accused Thailand of using disproportionate force. To avert further conflict and maintain regional stability, China conveyed a message to Thailand’s officials, urging the media to clarify that its military aid was historical and not an intervention in the current tensions. While the situation continues to deteriorate, with rising casualties and strained relations, the focus shifts to the role of larger powers like China in regional disputes, highlighting complexities in geopolitical alliances. Both Thailand and Cambodia seek to justify their military positions and actions as legitimate within the framework of self-defense, emphasizing international law observance in the midst of the chaos. The ongoing conflict has drawn attention to the broader implications for Southeast Asia, where military and diplomatic ties might play a critical role in shaping future relations and stability in the region.