In August 2008, with the support of external patrons, Tbilisi grossly violated the norms of international law and agreements on the peaceful settlement of the Georgian-South Ossetian conflict, Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, noted in his address to the Ossetians and Abkhazians in connection with the 15th anniversary of the recognition of independence.
"Dear citizens of the Republic of Abkhazia and the Republic of South Ossetia, dear friends! This year is special; it is the 15th anniversary of the historical events of August 2008. We all well remember the tragedy of South Ossetia, the nighttime shooting of Tskhinval by the Georgian troops killed hundreds of civilians, Russian peacekeepers, who until the end, were fulfilling their duty to protect people," Medvedev said.
He has reminded that in August 2008, contrary to common sense, Georgia launched the bloody armed attack.
"This left Russia no choice. As president of the country, I decided to force the aggressor to peace. Our reaction was adequate, speedy and tough. We were able not only to expel the invaders, but also to prevent a repetition of the tragedy in the future, including in relation to Abkhazia.
Our main task was to ensure a peaceful future and the security of the young republics of the Caucasus. This decision would have been impossible without the establishment of official relations between our states," Medvedev stressed.
The politician has added that the recognition of the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia was in line with the regulation, the UN Charter, and other fundamental international documents.
"But the most important thing is that it fully corresponded to the free will of the peoples of South Ossetia and Abkhazia. The decisions of August 2008 had a positive impact on the development of the Republic, with Russia's assistance today their economy is growing, investments are being attracted, the quality of social services is improving, and most importantly, the standard of living of people is rising.
A special merit in this belongs to you - the citizens of the two states," the Deputy Chairman of the Security Council noted in his address.
According to him, by their dedication the peoples of South Ossetia and Abkhazia were able to defend their right to independence, create conditions for a peaceful and stable life.
"I believe that the time has come for Tbilisi to recognize the objective realities and start an equal dialogue with Sukhum and Tskhinval on the basis of guarantees of the non-use of force, this is in the long-term interests of all parties. Dear friends, today the lessons of the events of August 2008 are especially relevant. Unfortunately, the West has never drawn the right conclusions, it continues to demonstrate aggression and double standards, waging hybrid wars in different parts of the world, unrestrainedly pumping up some countries with weapons in order to pit them against others. This is what we are now seeing in Ukraine," Medvedev said.
He has stressed that Russia is conducting a special military operation to protect its national interests.
"Its goals will be achieved; the truth is on our side. The successful peaceful development of South Ossetia is a convincing example of strong relations based on equality and mutual respect. Russia will always be with its allies - Sukhum and Tskhinval. We will continue to work together for the benefit of our peoples in the name of ensuring peace, security and stability in the region," Medvedev said.
