EU condemns Russia's occupation of Georgian territories on 2008 war anniversary

 The European Union has reaffirmed its support for Georgia's sovereignty and territorial integrity, condemning Russia's continued occupation of Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region (South Ossetia) and warning against Moscow's efforts to further integrate the occupied territories into Russia.

In a statement marking the 18th anniversary of the 2008 Russia-Georgia war, the EU said the consequences of the conflict continue to undermine Georgia's security, sovereignty and territorial integrity while having a lasting impact on the lives of people affected by the conflict.

The bloc condemned Russia's recognition of the self-proclaimed independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, reiterating that the continued presence and activities of Russian military forces in the occupied regions without the consent of the Georgian government are illegal and violate both international law and Russia's commitments under the 12 August 2008 six-point ceasefire agreement.

The EU also expressed concern over what it described as Russia's increasing efforts to integrate the occupied regions into its legal and security framework.

It said a so-called agreement on "deepening allied cooperation" signed between Moscow and the de facto authorities in Tskhinvali on 9 May, as well as the appointment of a Russian official as the acting "president" of South Ossetia, have no legal validity under international law.

The statement said residents of the occupied territories continue to face serious humanitarian challenges, including human rights violations, restrictions on freedom of movement and unlawful detentions, while internally displaced persons and refugees remain unable to return safely to their homes.

The EU reaffirmed its commitment to the peaceful resolution of the conflicts through the Geneva International Discussions, the work of the EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the crisis in Georgia, and the continued deployment of the EU Monitoring Mission (EUMM), the only international monitoring mission operating on the ground.

Brussels called on all participants in the Geneva talks to engage constructively in implementing the 12 August 2008 ceasefire agreement and the subsequent 8 September 2008 implementing measures.

The European Union concluded by reaffirming its unwavering support for Georgia's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders and its commitment to promoting peace in the region.