China Ties Strained? Cambodia Turns Back to the US

WooGlobe

After nearly a decade of tension, Cambodia is rebooting military ties with the United States. Once closely aligned with China, Cambodia now faces a crumbling economy, a border standoff with Thailand, and a cyberscam crisis worth billions. In a strategic shift, Phnom Penh is reopening doors to Washington—reviving military drills, easing trade tensions, and even welcoming a US naval visit to a Chinese-backed base. But is this a pivot away from Beijing—or a play for balance? WooGlobe Ref : WGA172724 For licensing and to use this video, please email licensing@wooglobe.com

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00:00Why is the U.S. suddenly shaking hands with Cambodia again, after nearly a decade of tension?

00:05Well, the answer is part diplomacy, part desperation.

00:09After years of cozying up to China and cutting ties with Washington,

00:13Cambodia is now restarting military drills with the U.S. for the first time since 2017.

00:18Back then, the country accused the U.S. of plotting a coup and turned to China for military and economic support.

00:24But now, with its economy tanking, border conflict with Thailand, and a massive cyber-scam industry under fire,

00:30Cambodia needs help, and fast.

00:33The U.S. just lifted an arms embargo, eased harsh tariffs, and is even planning a naval visit to Reem Base,

00:39a facility China helped expand.

00:41This move isn't about ditching Beijing. It's about balance.

00:45Cambodia's leaders know they can't afford to depend on just one superpower anymore.

00:49With cyber-scams worth billions, Chinese investment drying up, and its economy on the ropes,

00:54Cambodia is playing smart politics.

00:57This isn't a pivot. It's a recalibration.

00:59And the world is watching closely.

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