Europe marks 18 years since invasion with joint warning to Kremlin

Eighteen years after Russia's invasion of Georgia, the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Italy released a joint statement warning Moscow against further actions involving the country's occupied territories. The governments expressed deep concern over recent developments in South Ossetia, particularly the agreement signed on May 9, 2026, that deepened the alliance and cooperation between Russia and the region's de facto authorities.

The statement also noted the appointment of a Russian citizen to lead the region, warning that these moves could lead to Russia's full annexation of South Ossetia.

The four nations firmly condemned Russia's military presence and the continued militarization of occupied Abkhazia and South Ossetia, viewing these actions as direct violations of international law and Moscow's commitments under the 2008 ceasefire agreement. Furthermore, they highlighted a European Court of Human Rights ruling from October 2025, which held Russia responsible for numerous violations in Georgia's occupied territories, including excessive force, ill-treatment, unlawful detention, and restrictions on freedom of movement.

The Western governments urged Russia to comply with this ruling and adhere to the commitments made during the August and September 2008 ceasefire negotiations.

In response to these developments, the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Italy welcomed the Republic of Nauru's decision to withdraw its recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia's so-called independence. They further urged other countries with diplomatic relations with the two regions to follow suit. The four governments reaffirmed their support for the Geneva International Discussions and the European Union Monitoring Mission in Georgia, pledging their continued vigilance against Russia's actions.