**Russia Launches Direct Flights to Occupied Abkhazia, Igniting Condemnation from Tbilisi**
In a move that has sparked widespread condemnation from the Georgian government and international community, Russia has launched direct, regular flights to the occupied region of Abkhazia. The decision, taken without the consent of Georgian authorities, is seen as a blatant disregard for the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
According to reports, a Russian airline was seen operating a commercial passenger flight from Moscow to Sukhumi, the capital city of Abkhazia, on May 2. This move has been met with strong criticism from the Georgian government, which has repeatedly stressed its opposition to any form of recognition or support for the breakaway region.
**Georgia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs Speaks Out**
In a statement issued on May 1, Georgia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed concern over the resumption of air traffic in Russian-occupied Abkhazia and called on the Russian Federation to comply with its international obligations. The ministry stated that any flights conducted without Georgian authorization are “inadmissible” and constitute a gross violation of the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
**EU Condemns Russia’s Actions**
The European Union has also weighed in, condemning Russia’s unilateral decision to launch regular commercial passenger flights to Sukhumi. In a statement issued on May 3, the EU Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy reiterated the union’s firm support for Georgia’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.
**International Community Speaks Out**
The international community has also spoken out against Russia’s actions. The United Nations Charter, which emphasizes the principles of non-interference and respect for sovereignty, has been cited by many as a key factor in condemning Russia’s move.
As tensions continue to rise between Georgia and Russia over the occupied region of Abkhazia, it remains to be seen how this latest development will impact relations between the two countries. One thing is certain, however: the international community will be watching closely to see how Russia chooses to respond to these criticisms and demands for change.
**Background: The Conflict Over Abkhazia**
For decades, the region of Abkhazia has been a point of contention between Georgia and Russia. In 2008, Russia launched a military intervention in response to a brief conflict with Georgian forces, resulting in the de facto recognition of Abkhazia as an independent state.
Since then, tensions have continued to simmer between Georgia and Russia, with periodic outbreaks of violence and diplomatic tensions. The latest move by Russia has further strained relations between the two countries and raised concerns among international observers about the potential for renewed conflict.
**What’s Next?**
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains unclear what the next steps will be. Will Georgia take action to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity? Will Russia continue to push the boundaries of what is acceptable in terms of its actions towards Abkhazia?
One thing is certain: this latest development has sent shockwaves through the international community and raised serious concerns about the potential for further conflict between Georgia and Russia.
