EUMM notes fencing activities in breakaway South Ossetia

The EU Monitoring Mission in Georgia (EUMM) reported about the resumption of fencing activities along the administrative boundary line in breakaway South Ossetia.

The EUMM has activated the Incident Prevention and Response Hotline, calling on all sides to exchange information about these latest developments.

A patrol was sent to observe the installation of red metal posts along an estimated 160-metre stretch of land, including barbed wire over a 35-metre stretch, as stated on the EUMM web-site. Besides the resumption of the installation of fences, the Mission has also noted a recent intensification of the installation of sign posts in the area, some being in the middle of cultivated land.

"As winter is approaching, we call on all parties to take into account the potential impact on peoples livelihood and resources and on their ability to sustain themselves during this difficult time of the year, Head of EUMM Toivo Klaar said.

He also added that the EUMM will continue patrolling the area and facilitating the exchange of information among parties through the Hotline, in order to prevent and reduce potential tensions.