The Cambodian Government ha thrown in extra troops into its operation against the Communists near Taing Kouk, 50 miles (80 kms) north of Phnom Penh.

Government aircraft have been pounding the Viet Cong entrenched in wooded country. Bitter fighting has been taking place in the area for some weeks and the outcome is still in doubt.

If the operation is successful, Cambodian troops will be able to move further north to reinforce its soldiers heavily engaged defending the north-west town of Pouk. on the fate of this town the sole ground (15 kms) supply route to the isolated provincial capital of Siem Riep. The Viet Cong already occupy the ruins of the ancient city of Angkor, about 10 miles ( 15 kms ) from Pouk.