Europe continues to condemn

Members of the European Parliament overwhelmingly voted (548 against 68 with 61 abstentions) to adopt a resolution calling on Russia to withdraw its troops from Georgia and respect the integrity of this country.

The European Parliament also recommended that the European Council and the European Commission review their policy towards Russia. Deputies supported the European Union's decision to postpone negotiations with Russia on concluding a strategic partnership and cooperation agreement until Russia withdraws its troops from Georgia.

In addition, the deputies demanded an independent international investigation into the conflict. According to the European Parliament, the European Council should consider the possibility of sending an observer mission to the conflict zone as part of the European Security and Defense Policy. The proposal to accelerate the creation of a free trade zone with Georgia, Ukraine and Moldova was supported. Members of the European Parliament noted the role of Georgia in increasing the energy security of Europe.

The final text of the resolution did not include a clause on Georgia’s “inappropriate behavior” at the beginning of the conflict, which the Party of European Socialists insisted on.

Thus, there is again no talk of any sanctions against Russia, but Europe confirms that it largely supports Georgia in this conflict.