The Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed deep concern over Russia’s illegal control of Sokhumi Airport and the resumption of air traffic to occupied Abkhazia, the ministry stated in a statement.

The statement highlights that the unauthorized operation of a Russian airline flight to Abkhazia on May 1, 2025, along with the so-called “agreement” signed with the occupation regime, represents a blatant violation of Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The agreement regarding the transfer and operation of Sokhumi Airport to Russia constitutes a gross breach of Georgian Law on Occupied Territories, as well as fundamental principles and norms of international law, including the UN Charter and the Convention of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), of which both Georgia and Russia are members.

The ministry also expressed concern over the commencement of rail traffic from Russia to occupied Abkhazia on May 1, 2025.

“The initiation of rail traffic from Russia to occupied Abkhazia on May 1 is equally concerning. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to activate relevant international mechanisms and urges the global community to assess and respond appropriately to Russia’s actions, which undermine Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the statement reads.

The ministry calls on Russia to fulfil its international obligations, including those under the ICAO Convention and the ceasefire agreement brokered by the European Union on August 12, 2008, emphasizing the need for adherence to international law and respect for Georgia’s territorial sovereignty.