Georgia Marks 17 Years Since August 2008 War Amid Continued Occupation
By Liza Mchedlidze
Friday, August 8, 2025
Seventeen years after the 2008 conflict between Russia and Georgia, the country continues to grapple with the consequences of war as 20 percent of its territory remains under Russian occupation. The anniversary has prompted statements from international partners and Georgian political leaders, all reaffirming support for Georgia's sovereignty and condemning Russia's actions.
The European Union reiterated its commitment to Georgia's independence and territorial integrity, emphasizing the importance of peaceful conflict resolution. "The EU Monitoring Mission plays a crucial role in stabilizing security as the only international presence on the ground," the EU spokesperson said, condemning Russia's military presence in the breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia as violations of international law and the 2008 ceasefire agreement.
Similarly, the U.S. Embassy expressed solidarity with the Georgian people. "We remember the victims of war and those displaced, and reaffirm our unwavering support for Georgia's sovereignty and territorial integrity," the embassy said in its statement.
Germany also called on Russia to fulfill its obligations under the 2008 agreements and rejected Moscow's recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia as independent states. The German Embassy stressed that such unilateral actions undermine regional stability and violate Georgia's sovereignty.
The official records show that 408 people died during the war, including military personnel, police officers, and civilians. More than 2,200 were injured. Despite the ceasefire, Russia has reinforced its military presence in occupied regions, continues to restrict freedom of movement, and detains local civilians near the occupation line.
Domestically, the anniversary was marked by criticism of the current Georgian government. Tina Bokuchava, chairwoman of the opposition United National Movement, accused the ruling party of blaming Georgia itself for the war and disrespecting national heroes who fought against aggression. Speaking at a memorial for war hero Giorgi Antsukhelidze, she declared, "Georgia will never kneel before an internal or external enemy."
