EU foreign policy chief, Georgian president discuss Russia-Ukraine war

By Agnes Szucs

BRUSSELS (AA) - The EU foreign policy chief and Georgian president discussed the regional implications of Russia's war on Ukraine, the EU’s diplomatic service announced on Wednesday.

In a phone call with Georgia's President Salome Zourabichvili, Josep Borrell stressed the EU's support to Georgia regarding the war in Ukraine and assured that the bloc stands ready to step up its cooperation with Georgia to strengthen its resilience, according to a statement by the European External Action Service.

Borrell told Zourabichvili that Russia's war on Ukraine “created a humanitarian disaster of enormous scale” and seriously undermined the European security and principles of international law.

The leaders also discussed the war’s negative consequences on regional security and the economy.

Borrell acknowledged Georgia’s position in support of Ukraine and reaffirmed the bloc’s “unwavering commitment” to the country’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, the statement added.

In 2008, a five-day conflict broke out between Georgia and Russia over the breakaway regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia.

Tbilisi ultimately lost control of both areas and Russia later recognized them as independent states.

The international community still recognizes the two regions as part of Georgia.

The Russia-Ukraine war, which began on Feb. 24, has met international outrage with the EU, US, and UK, among others, implementing tough financial sanctions on Moscow.

At least 953 civilians have been killed so far in Ukraine, and 1,557 injured, according to UN estimates. It has warned, however, that the exact toll is likely much higher as it has not been able to gain access to areas of increased hostilities.

Over 3.6 million Ukrainians have also fled to the neighboring countries, according to the UN refugee agency.