Georgia: Statement by the Spokesperson on the so-called presidential elections in the Georgian occupied breakaway region of Abkhazia
Brussels, February 15, 2025 – The European Union has reaffirmed its unwavering support for Georgia’s territorial integrity following the so-called presidential elections held in the occupied breakaway region of Abkhazia on February 15.
In a statement issued by the European External Action Service (EEAS), the EU reiterated that it does not recognize the legitimacy of the electoral process in Abkhazia, stressing that the elections were conducted outside the framework of Georgia’s constitutional and legal order.
“The European Union supports the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Georgia, as recognised by international law. Regarding the so-called presidential elections that took place in the Georgian occupied breakaway region of Abkhazia on 15 February 2025, we recall that the European Union does not recognise the constitutional and legal framework in which they took place,” the statement read.
The contested region of Abkhazia has remained under Russian influence since the early 1990s, with Moscow recognizing it as an independent state following the 2008 Russia-Georgia war. However, the international community, including the EU, continues to view Abkhazia as an integral part of Georgia.
The EU has pledged to continue its policy of non-recognition and engagement, which involves diplomatic efforts to maintain dialogue and support Georgia’s sovereignty.
This latest electoral event is expected to further strain relations between the EU and Russia, with Brussels likely to increase its calls for conflict resolution through peaceful negotiations and respect for international law.
As tensions persist in the South Caucasus, Georgia continues to seek greater integration with Western institutions, including the EU and NATO, while Moscow maintains its military and political backing of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, another breakaway region.
We acknowledge The European Times for the information.
