The United States’ position on Abkhazia and South Ossetia remains clear: these regions are integral parts of Georgia. We continue to support Georgia’s independence, its sovereignty, and its territorial integrity consistent with its internationally recognized borders.
- Response to the Co-Chairs of the Geneva International Discussions (Nov. 6)
- On the Purported “Draft Treaty” Initiated by Russia (Oct. 30)
- U.S. Condemns the Illegitimate Election in Georgia’s Abkhazia Region (Aug. 28)
The United States will not recognize the legitimacy of the so-called “treaty” between Georgia’s Abkhazia region and the Russian Federation. We share the concern of other participating States about the impact of this so-called “treaty,” including its possible implications for regional stability and discussions within the Geneva format. We once again urge Russia to fulfill all of its obligations under the 2008 ceasefire agreement, to withdraw its forces to pre-conflict positions, to reverse its recognition of the Georgian regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia as independent states, and to provide free access for humanitarian assistance to these regions.
We reiterate our full support for the Geneva international discussions as a means to achieve concrete progress on security and humanitarian issues that continue to affect the communities on the ground in Georgia.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
As delivered by Chargé d’Affaires Kate Byrnes to the Permanent Council, Vienna