Georgia’s President pays tribute to fallen soldiers in 2008 war, claims former administration ‘hiding behind’ their heroism

Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili has paid tribute to the servicemembers and civilians who lost their lives during the 2008 war with Russia, while criticising the country’s former leadership, accusing it of “hiding behind” the bravery of soldiers to “deflect responsibility for the” war.

Speaking at Mukhatgverdi Brothers’ Cemetery on the 17th anniversary of the conflict on Friday, Kavelashvili said the former United National Movement administration had failed in its duty to prevent war and was now using the soldiers' sacrifice to obscure its role in the events of 2008.

“Certain people - especially from the United National Movement - must not hide behind the heroism of our brave soldiers,” the President said. “Everyone had a duty to prevent this war and protect the homeland. That duty was not fulfilled.”

The President was joined by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili, and members of both executive and legislative branches in laying a wreath at the military memorial in Tbilisi.

Kavelashvili also praised the fallen as national heroes who gave their lives in defence of Georgia’s freedom.

“We honour our heroic soldiers, our national heroes, who gave the most precious thing - their lives - for our country’s freedom. Glory to their memory. We will always bow before them.”

He further expressed condolences to the families of those who died and reiterated the importance of recognising the enduring role of Georgia’s armed forces.

“Georgia has always had, has, and will always have heroic soldiers. This must never be in doubt. Our country stands where it is today thanks to their sacrifice.”

Kavelashvili drew a distinction between the duty of the armed forces and the responsibilities of political leadership, saying that institutions must act to preserve peace and national security.

“Soldiers have their sacred mission, but it is the job of the state - of its leaders, its judiciary, and its president - to protect national interests and avoid war. Security must come first.”

The comments came amid commemorations across Georgia marking 17 years since the brief but devastating five-day war with Russia, which left more than 400 people dead and displaced tens of thousands.

According to official figures, 170 servicemembers from the Ministry of Defence, 14 Interior Ministry personnel, and 224 civilians were killed in the conflict. More than 2,200 were wounded, including over 1,000 military personnel.