Georgia unveils monument to 2008 August War victims

Interior Minister Giorgi Gakharia has unveiled a monument to those who lost their lives in the 2008 August War today.

The monument was installed in the village of Nikozi, near the Russia - occupied Tskhinvali (South Ossetia) region at the request of local residents.

Minister Gakharia paid tribute to the memroy of the August War victims. Photo: Interior Ministry. 

Georgian Interior Minister Giorgi Gakharia paid respect to those who died and said the 2008 war showed that ‘war is not an outcome.’

Hard work, a better-developed democratic country and care for our children, first, the children of fallen heroes, represent the only outlet,” Minister Gakharia said while addressing the public. 

The Russia-Georgia war began on August 8, 2008 and lasted five days.

14 police officers died during the 2008 August War. Photo: Interior Ministry. 

The armed conflict claimed the lives of 228 Georgian civilians, 170 soldiers and 14 police officers.

192,000 people had to leave their houses during the war. Most of them returned to their homes after the war but more than 20,000 still remain displaced.