The President of Abkhazia addressed the people of South Ossetia

The President of Abkhazia Badra Gunba addressed the President and the people of South Ossetia in connection with the 17th anniversary of the Georgian attack on South Ossetia.

"On behalf of the people of Abkhazia, I appeal to To you and all the fraternal people of South Ossetia with words of support on the 17th anniversary of the tragic events of August 2008. Those tragic days of aggression showed the steadfastness of the spirit of the Ossetian people, their determination to defend the freedom of the Fatherland. The events of August 2008 once again demonstrated to the whole world that great Russia does not leave its friends in trouble. Thanks to the decisive and timely actions of the Russian leadership, the Georgian troops that invaded the peaceful city of Tskhinval were defeated. Today we honor the memory of the victims of that terrible tragedy, the memory of the heroic defenders of Ossetia and Russian servicemen who gave their lives to save the people of South Ossetia," the address of the President of Abkhazia says.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Abkhazia, in turn, sent a note of condolence to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of South Ossetia.

"The events of August 2008 will forever remain in history as a fact of Georgia's criminal, barbaric aggression against the civilian population of South Ossetia. Having shown courage and steadfastness in the most difficult moment, the people of South Ossetia gave a worthy response to the challenges they had to face. Today we remember with deep respect those who, at the cost of their lives, ensured peace and stability for future generations. On this memorable day, the Republic of Abkhazia expresses solidarity with the fraternal people of South Ossetia and shares the sorrow for those killed during the Five—Day War of August 2008," the note of condolence says.

On the night of August 8, 2008, the Georgian Armed Forces launched a massive artillery bombardment and assault on the city of Tskhinval, disturbing the sleep of its residents. Hundreds of civilians were killed.

Thanks to the courage of the local defenders of Ossetia, the prompt reaction of Russia and the operation to force Georgia to peace, the war was stopped five days later. On August 26, 2008, Russia recognized the independence of South Ossetia, restoring historical justice.

Abkhazia in those days came to the aid of the fraternal people of South Ossetia. Sukhum opened a second front against Georgia in Kodori Gorge. By August 12, Georgia had withdrawn its units from the upper part of the Kodori Gorge of Abkhazia.