The EU releases a statement on Georgia and expresses its concern over the illegal presence of Russian military in the breakaway regions of Georgia. The statement emphasizes the increasing number of military exercises and the strengthening of infrastructure. In addition, the concern is expressed that despite the constant appeal of the international community, the situation in Abkhazia and Tskhinvali is still worsening.

The EU calls on Russia to comply with the 2008 Agreement and ensure the accession of the monitoring mission in the regions. The EU is concerned over the strengthening of the so-called borderization process due to the destruction of houses in the village of Eredvi damaged by the war and new rules introduced in Gali, which further aggravate local population`s already limited access to basic rights and services.

The EU calls for effective control over the reopening of checkpoints to prevent illegal arrests and to investigate all crimes. It is also about violation of the right to education in the native language of children.