The US Department of State releases a statement on the 16th anniversary of the August War.

“Today we mark sixteen years since Russia invaded the sovereign nation of Georgia and remember those killed, injured, or displaced by Russia’s military campaign and illegal occupation. To this day, Russia continues to occupy 20 percent of Georgia’s territory and impose its will on the people there, including by claiming the transfer of strategically important lands in Abkhazia to Russia and taking steps to establish a permanent naval base in Ochamchire.

The United States remains steadfast in support of Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. We call on Russia to fulfill its commitments and obligations under the 2008 ceasefire agreement to withdraw its forces to pre-conflict positions and allow unimpeded access for the delivery of humanitarian assistance. We also call on Russia to reverse its recognition of the so-called independence of Georgia’s Abkhazia and South Ossetia regions. These actions would allow tens of thousands of internally displaced people to return to their homes safely.

The US’ support for the people of Georgia in their pursuit of a Euro-Atlantic future and a peaceful solution to the conflict is enduring”, - reads the statement.