MOSCOW

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Thursday that Moscow welcomes reports of Cambodia and Thailand’s intention to resume dialogue on a ceasefire and conflict resolution.

Speaking at a press briefing in Moscow, Zakharova expressed support for the two countries’ effort to resolve disputes diplomatically.

"Encouragement comes from the emerging information about Bangkok and Phnom Penh's intention to resume dialogue within existing bilateral mechanisms to ensure a ceasefire and conflict resolution, including in light of the provisions of the joint declaration signed by the parties on the sidelines of the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) summit in Kuala Lumpur on October 26 of this year," she said.

Zakharova noted that "the year 2025 was marked by the transition to a stage of armed confrontation over territorial disputes inherited from Western colonial policy between Cambodia and Thailand."

"The current situation is of even greater concern because these states have been our traditional partners for many years. We consistently advocate for the resolution of all disputes exclusively through peaceful means, with both sides exercising restraint, primarily to avoid civilian casualties," she added.

The spokeswoman urged Cambodia and Thailand to act in the spirit of unity and solidarity characteristic of ASEAN to overcome existing contradictions.

Earlier on Wednesday, Thailand and Cambodia held their first military talks in Thailand’s Chanthaburi province amid fresh clashes, as the total death toll on both sides reached 95.

The meeting, which reportedly lasted less than an hour, came as the first military talks since the renewed clashes began on Dec. 8.

Thai officials said that at least 65 people have lost their lives in Thailand, most of whom are civilians, while Cambodian authorities said at least 30 people died in Cambodia.

The two sides will hold military negotiations through Friday.