High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrel, made a statement on the anniversary of the August 2008 war.

According to Borrel, the EU condemns Russia's military presence in Abkhazia and South Ossetia, which is a violation of international law and the obligations assumed by Russia in the agreement reached on August 12, 2008 with the mediation of the European Union.

"The EU's commitment to the peaceful settlement of the conflict in Georgia is stronger than ever. We condemn the continued presence of Russian armed forces in Abkhazia and South Ossetia, which violates international law and contradicts Russia's obligations under the agreement reached on August 12, 2008 with the mediation of the European Union. The local population is still facing humanitarian problems, human rights violations continue, including restrictions on freedom of movement and illegal detentions. Once again, there are obstacles to the return of internally displaced persons and refugees to their former places of residence," Borrel said in a statement.

According to a statement published on the website of the EU Foreign Policy Service, the EU is fully involved in efforts to resolve the conflict.

"The EU has fully participated in attempts to resolve the conflict, including as a co-chair in the Geneva international discussions and through the efforts of the EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the crisis in Georgia. We call on all participants to engage constructively in discussions to achieve full implementation of the six-point agreement of August 12, 2008. We also stress the importance of the right of refugees and displaced persons to choose a sustainable solution that includes voluntary, safe and dignified return.

The continuous work of the EU Observer Mission (EUMM) on the ground with the participation of more than 200 civilian observers also contributed to the stabilization of the security situation. With the mandate extended until December 2024, the EUMM is the only international mission on the ground that contributes to the safe and normal life of the local population living on both sides of the administrative border lines with Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

The European Union reaffirms its commitment to efforts to stabilize and resolve conflicts in Georgia and strongly supports Georgia's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within the country's internationally recognized borders," the EU High Representative for Foreign Policy and Security said in a statement.

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