Georgia urges Russia to withdraw troops from Abkhazia and South Ossetia

Georgia’s foreign ministry on Thursday urged Russia to reverse its recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, withdraw its troops from Georgian territory and comply with the Aug. 12, 2008 ceasefire agreement.

In a statement marking the 17th anniversary of the 2008 war, the ministry accused Moscow of continuing to integrate the regions into its political, economic and military structures, blocking access for international missions and preventing the return of refugees.

Georgia said it remains committed to a peaceful resolution and works closely with international partners to achieve de-occupation.