West warns Russia over moves in Georgia as fears of full annexation grow
Photo: Russia is preparing a full-scale annexation of Abkhazia (facebook.com/mod.mil.rus)
The UK, France, Germany, and Italy issued a joint statement on the 18th anniversary of Russia's invasion of Georgia, warning Moscow against the final seizure of the occupied territories, according to a statement by the governments of the four countries.
Risk of annexation
The allies expressed deep concern over recent developments in South Ossetia.
In particular, this refers to the agreement on deepening alliance and cooperation signed between Moscow and the de facto authorities of the region on May 9, 2026, as well as the appointment of a Russian citizen as the head of the territory.
The joint statement emphasized that such actions indicate preparations for a full-scale annexation of the region, which will not go unanswered by the international community.
Violations of international law
Western countries once again condemned Russia's ongoing military presence and the militarization of occupied Abkhazia and South Ossetia. This constitutes a direct violation of international law and commitments under the 2008 ceasefire agreement.
The allies recalled the ruling of the European Court of Human Rights from October 2025. The Court found Russia guilty of several crimes in the occupied territories, including:
- Excessive use of force and ill-treatment;
- Unlawful detention of citizens;
- Restrictions on movement across the administrative boundary line.
Western partners called on Russia to comply with the ECHR ruling, and also welcomed the decision of the Republic of Nauru to withdraw its recognition of the "independence" of the separatist entities.
Situation around Georgia's occupied territories
Tensions around the Russian-occupied Georgian regions have persisted for many years.
In particular, in November 2024, mass protests erupted in occupied Abkhazia over attempts by the local de facto authorities to sign a so-called investment agreement with Moscow.
In August 2024, on the 16th anniversary of Russia's aggression, NATO issued an official statement in support of Georgia's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Meanwhile, in May 2025, experts analyzed a possible end to the friendship between Tbilisi and Moscow, as a noticeable cooling in relations had begun to emerge.
