On the third anniversary of the ongoing war in Ukraine, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze conveyed his “desire for peace” in the war-torn country. During a Government session on Monday, he called the day a “heartbreaking” milestone for Ukraine and its people, who he said had endured “tremendous hardship” since the Russian invasion in 2022.
Kobakhidze underscored the heavy toll the war had taken, including “widespread loss of life, the displacement of millions, and the continued occupation of approximately 20% of Ukraine’s territory by Russian forces”.
“The war has had severe consequences for our brotherly nation,” Kobakhidze said. “Countless lives have been lost, and nearly 10 million Ukrainians have been forced to flee their homes.”
He also pointed out the economic difficulties Ukraine is facing, noting that the country’s foreign debt “is nearing the equivalent of its entire GDP. The war has also significantly damaged Ukraine’s infrastructure, economy, and energy sectors”.
“This year, the foreign debt has reached 96%, and projections show that it will surpass 100% by the end of the year,” Kobakhidze remarked.
Kobakhidze called for an “accelerated and successful resolution” to peace talks, reaffirming that “the most important wish we have for Ukraine and its people is peace.”
