Why Cambodia is reviving US military drills despite close China ties
Cambodia is planning to resume joint military exercises with the United States while maintaining strong strategic ties with China. Analysts view this as a pragmatic attempt by Cambodia to balance its defense relationships in the region.
Why it matters
The move reflects the complex geopolitical maneuvering in Southeast Asia as nations navigate the influence of both the US and China.
Cambodia is preparing to restart joint military exercises with the United States next year, in a move analysts described as a pragmatic reset of defence ties strained since 2017 – though not a pivot away from China.
Senior officials from both countries discussed restarting the Angkor Sentinel drills last weekend, alongside expanded training and military reforms, Cambodian media reported.
Washington has also signalled interest in further visits to Ream, a strategically located Cambodian naval base built with extensive Chinese assistance.
The announcements followed a visit by Elbridge Colby, the Pentagon’s under secretary of defence for policy, to Phnom Penh for meetings with Prime Minister Hun Manet and Defence Minister Tea Seiha on August 14 and 15 – the last stop on a four-nation tour aimed at rebuilding military relationships.
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