Today marks sixteen years since Russia's invasion of the sovereign nation of Georgia. The event is remembered for the lives lost, injuries sustained, and the displacement caused by Russia’s military campaign and subsequent occupation. Currently, Russia occupies 20 percent of Georgia’s territory and continues to assert control over the region, including through the claimed transfer of strategically important lands in Abkhazia to Russia and efforts to establish a permanent naval base in Ochamchire.
The United States remains steadfast in its support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. "We call on Russia to fulfill its commitments and obligations under the 2008 ceasefire agreement to withdraw its forces to pre-conflict positions and allow unimpeded access for the delivery of humanitarian assistance," stated a U.S. official. Additionally, there is a call for Russia to reverse its recognition of the so-called independence of Georgia’s Abkhazia and South Ossetia regions. Such actions would enable tens of thousands of internally displaced individuals to return home safely.
The United States’ commitment to supporting the people of Georgia in their pursuit of a Euro-Atlantic future and a peaceful resolution to the conflict remains unwavering.
