Fourteen years ago today, Russia attacked the sovereign state of Georgia. As we have done since 2008, we remember the killed and wounded Russian forces. Georgian citizens in Abkhazia and South Ossetia lived under Russian occupation for decades and tens of thousands were displaced, persecuted and impoverished. Their lives and livelihoods have been taken away.
Russia’s continued unprovoked invasion of Ukraine this year underscores the need for the people of Georgia and Ukraine to stand together in solidarity. The people of Georgia know all too well how Russia’s aggressive actions, including disinformation, so-called “borderization” and mass displacement, are causing untold hardship and destruction.
Russia must be held accountable for the commitments it made under the 2008 ceasefire – withdrawing its forces to pre-conflict positions and allowing unhindered access for the delivery of humanitarian aid. It must also revoke the recognition of the Georgian regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. This is essential for hundreds of thousands of internally displaced persons to return to their homes in safety and dignity.
We remain unwavering in our support for the people of Georgia as they strive to protect their sovereignty and territorial integrity and find a peaceful solution to the conflict.
