Two Russian Pacific Fleet corvettes have arrived in Cambodia, marking a fresh show of military cooperation between Moscow and Phnom Penh.

The Sovershenny and Rezky, carrying 262 sailors, sailed into Sihanoukville port on Sunday. Their visit, which runs until 8 April, is officially billed as a step to strengthen defence ties between the two nations.

A welcoming ceremony was held at the port, attended by Russian Ambassador Anatoly Borovik, Rear Admiral In Sokhemara of the Cambodian Navy, and dozens of Cambodian sailors. Over the coming days, Russian officers are scheduled to meet senior figures including the commander of Ream Naval Base, the governor of Sihanoukville Province, and officials from the Ministry of National Defence.

Beyond the formalities, the programme also includes friendly sporting events between Russian and Cambodian crews, underscoring the softer side of military diplomacy.

This is not the first time Cambodia has hosted Russian warships. Last April, a detachment including the Rezky and the Aldar Tsydenzhapov corvettes spent five days in Sihanoukville, combining official meetings with sightseeing and joint games.

The latest visit comes at a time when Russia is seeking to deepen its presence in Southeast Asia, while Cambodia continues to balance relations with major powers. For Phnom Penh, such naval exchanges offer both symbolic prestige and practical engagement with a longstanding partner.

With the ships due to depart later this week, the brief stay highlights how military visits can serve as both a diplomatic gesture and a reminder of Russia’s enduring interest in the region.

-2026-04-07

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