The Aftermath of Cambodian Occupation

The withdrawal of Vietnamese forces from Cambodia in the late 1980s led to significant political uncertainty for the country. With the Vietnamese army gone, concerns arose regarding the potential resurgence of the Khmer Rouge, the authoritarian regime that had previously ruled with brutality. This shift prompted various international stakeholders, including the United States and ASEAN nations, to reconsider their strategies and alliances in the region. The diplomatic landscape became increasingly complex as countries like China sought to validate their support for remaining Khmer Rouge elements while navigating delicate relationships with neighboring nations.