Georgia’s Foreign Ministry: Russian military trainings threaten entire region

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia is calling on the international community to adequately assess Russia’s military trainings on Georgia breakaway territory of Tskhinvali (South Ossetia) and Abkhazia. 

More than 2,000 troops are currently participating in military trainings on Georgia’s two occupied territories. The exercises, involving Abkhazian and South Ossetian troops, began on August 18 are due to continue until September 18.

Today Georgia’s Foreign Ministry said soldiers involved in the trainings were using about 500 special communication devices that were of a "provocative nature” and opposed international legislation. 

Russian actions are posing a threat to maintaining peace and stability in the region,” read the Ministry statement.

Georgia’s call for an adequate response was aimed at the European Union Monitoring Mission (EUMM) and the Co-Chairs of the Geneva International Discussions. 

Information on the Russian Ministry of Defence’s website noted the exercises involved the use of modern weapons including Grad-M, Uragan and Smerch multiple launch rocket systems;  152mm and 122mm towed howitzer pieces (Msta-С and  D-30);  a towed artillery piece and other military systems. 

In parallel to the unlawful military exercises, Russia continued to violate Georgian-controlled airspace, said the Foreign Ministry. 

On 19 August, at 10:57am, a Russian military MI-8 helicopter entered Georgian-controlled airspace from the occupied Khelchua village and flew over Zardiaantkari village in Gori. After violating Georgian airspace, the helicopter continued moving towards occupied Akhalgori,” said the Ministry.

The Georgian side has demanded the Russian Federation to comply with the fundamental principles of international law, as well as with the international commitments undertaken by Russia, including the Ceasefire Agreement of August 12, 2008 and to de-occupy the two Georgian territories.