US Navy Warship To Visit China’s Close Ally In Southeast Asia After 8 Years

For the first time in 8 years, a U.S. Navy warship is visiting Cambodia—China’s close ally in Southeast Asia.

The USS Savannah, a Littoral Combat Ship with 103 crew members, will berth at Cambodia’s Sihanoukville Port from December 16 to 20.

The visit aims to strengthen U.S.-Cambodia diplomatic ties and promote bilateral cooperation, marking a rare military engagement.

The U.S. remains concerned over Cambodia’s Ream Naval Base near Sihanoukville, which it suspects serves Chinese strategic interests.

Located near the Malacca Strait, Ream Naval Base could give China a major foothold in the Indo-Pacific region.

While Cambodia denies any foreign military agreements, Chinese activities at the base continue to raise international suspicion.

During the USS Savannah’s visit, crew members will meet Cambodian officials, including Ream’s naval commander, and engage in friendly sports matches.

This visit marks a significant step in U.S.-Cambodia relations amid ongoing geopolitical tensions over Chinese influence in Southeast Asia.