Tbilisi calls on Moscow to fulfill 2008 ceasefire obligations, withdraw forces

On the 17th anniversary of the August war, the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a resolute statement condemning Russia’s continued military presence in Georgian territories and calling for an immediate withdrawal of its forces.

The ministry underscored that Russia’s actions remain a blatant violation of international law and breach commitments outlined in the 2008 ceasefire agreement, Caliber.Az reports.

The statement emphasized that Russia’s recognition of the so-called independence of Georgia’s occupied regions constitutes an illegal act that undermines Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs calls on the Russian Federation to revoke the illegal decision recognizing the so-called independence of the occupied regions, to respect Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, to fulfill the obligations under the 12 August 2008 Ceasefire Agreement, to withdraw its forces from Georgia’s territory and to cease obstructing the return of internally displaced persons and refugees to their homes,” the statement declared.

The Georgian government reiterated its commitment to pursuing de-occupation exclusively through peaceful channels, emphasizing diplomatic and legal measures in close cooperation with international partners. Tbilisi remains steadfast in its resolve to restore territorial integrity without resorting to conflict.

By Vafa Guliyeva