On the 17th anniversary of the 2008 Russia-Georgia war, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry issued a strong statement reaffirming its unwavering support for Georgia’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.

“Seventeen years ago, the Russian Federation committed an act of armed aggression against the sovereign state of Georgia, grossly violating international law,” the statement reads. “As a result, around 20% of Georgia’s territory remains under illegal Russian occupation, and over 200,000 people were forced to flee their homes, becoming internally displaced.”

Ukraine condemned the Kremlin's actions, describing the 2008 war as the first major sign of Russia's renewed imperial ambitions, aimed at redrawing borders by force and destabilizing the region. It added that the invasion of Ukraine was a continuation of this same policy.

The statement also expressed deep concern over the worsening humanitarian situation in the Russian-occupied regions of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali/South Ossetia, highlighting illegal detentions, arrests of civilians, and severe restrictions on freedom of movement.

“Ukraine does not recognize the so-called ‘independence’ of Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region and firmly condemns Russia’s aggressive policy,” the ministry emphasized.

Ukraine called on Russia to fully comply with the 2008 ceasefire agreement by withdrawing its forces from Georgian territory and revoking its recognition of the breakaway regions.

“We believe that only through united international efforts, strict adherence to international law, and strong sanctions pressure can Russia be forced to withdraw from the occupied territories of both Georgia and Ukraine — and held fully accountable for its war crimes,” the statement concluded.