The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia expressed its concern over the illegal operation of Sokhumi Airport and the commencement of air travel in the Russian-occupied Abkhazia.

"The unlawful flight carried out by a Russian airline on Thursday [May, 1], as well as the so-called "agreement" signed with the occupation regime concerning the transfer and exploitation of Sokhumi Airport by Russia, represents a blatant violation of Georgia`s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

These actions also breach the law of Georgia on occupied territories, 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 the Russian Federation are members.

The agency 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, territorial integrity.

We urge the Russian Federation to fulfill its international obligations, including those under the ICAO Convention and the EU-mediated ceasefire agreement of August 12, 2008", - reads the statement.