Estonian Foreign Minister discusses Georgia's attack on Abkhazia and South Ossetia during their respective anniversaries
The 2009 Report of the International Independent Commission of Inquiry into the Conflict in the Caucasus provides a comprehensive account of the causes and events surrounding the conflict between Georgia, Abkhazia, and South Ossetia, which erupted in August 2008.
On August 8, Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsakhkna made a statement, commemorating the anniversary of the conflict's onset. According to Tsakhkna, the event was marked by Russia's aggression against Abkhazia and South Ossetia.
The report, an independent investigation into the conflict, sheds light on the complex tensions that have simmered for decades. The separatist movements in Abkhazia and South Ossetia, Georgia's attempts to assert control over these regions, and the involvement of Russia have been key factors in the ongoing conflict.
The report details the escalation of violence in June and August 2008. After months of deteriorating relations and military provocations, fighting broke out on June 14-15, 2008, between Georgian forces and South Ossetian separatists. The situation escalated further when Georgian troops moved into Tskhinvali following an intensification of separatist attacks on August 7-8, 2008.
Russia's military intervention was a critical turning point, leading to the Russo-Georgian War. The report underscores Russia's role in escalating the conflict militarily, although it implies shared responsibility for the breakdown of peace.
The report does not address Estonia's stance on the sovereignty of Georgia or its recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. However, Tsakhkna's statement on August 8 made it clear that Estonia will never recognize Abkhazia and South Ossetia.
The report, a significant document regarding the conflict, has likely been used as a reference by various parties involved in the conflict or those studying it. The conflict's impact on the region's geopolitical landscape was profound, with Russia occupying about 20% of Georgian territory as a result. The report highlights a cycle of provocations, ethnic conflict, and external interventions as key causes of the conflict.
The report provide insights into the complex web of tensions, including war-and-conflicts, politics, and general-news, that have underpinned the conflict between Georgia, Abkhazia, and South Ossetia.
The ongoing conflict, marked by separatist movements, Georgia's administration efforts, and Russia's involvement, is a matter of significant international interest.
