International Allies Rally Around Georgia on 15th Anniversary of the 2008 War

On the poignant 15th anniversary of the August 2008 war, global partners have come forward, resoundingly expressing their unwavering support for Georgia.

Charles Michel, President of the European Council, conveyed his solidarity via Twitter, stating, "Fifteen years since Russia's incursion into Georgia, the EU's commitment to Georgia's territorial integrity and sovereignty has not wavered. We steadfastly stand alongside the brave Georgian people who have decidedly pursued pro-EU and pro-NATO aspirations."

The Council of Europe was forthright in its stance, "As we mark the 15th year since the armed standoff between Georgia and Russia in August 2008, we remain unyielding in our backing for Georgia's sovereignty, independence, and territorial bounds as acknowledged internationally. We vehemently reject Russia's validation of Georgian territories – Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia, and its military occupation there, as they flagrantly infringe upon foundational international law principles."

The Council voiced grave concerns about the persistent human rights breaches affecting conflict-ridden populations, especially those in territories under Russian dominion. Such rights, enshrined in the European Convention for Human Rights, face severe infringements, a fact further exacerbated by the "borderisation" initiative. The Council emphasized that Russia, given its control, is bound to respect international mandates, uphold human rights verdicts from the European Court, and facilitate the safe return of displaced persons.

Reiterating its commitment to lasting peace, the Council underscored its backing for the Geneva International Discussions. "We're unequivocally devoted to aiding Georgia in navigating conflict aftermaths, championing reconciliation, dialogue, and human rights via confidence-building measures (CBMs)."

The Latvian Foreign Ministry expressed its stance, "On this 15th anniversary, Latvia denounces Russia's blatant international law breaches from 15 years ago. We unreservedly back Georgia's independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and its Euro-Atlantic trajectory."

Estonia's Foreign Ministry added, "As we mark the 15th year of Russia's unlawful aggression against Georgia, Estonia unequivocally censures Russia's occupation of a fifth of Georgia and its military fortification on the boundary. Our commitment to Georgia's territorial sanctity and Euro-Atlantic integration is unwavering."

Furthermore, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry voiced its support on Twitter, affirming its resolute stand with the Georgian populace and continued advocacy for Georgia's sovereignty and territorial sanctity.

Today, August 7, marks 15 years since the onset of the grievous 5-day conflict in August 2008.