DISINFO: Georgian armed groups are using EUMM to provoke Tskhinvali into inadequate behaviour
SUMMARY
During these three months, Georgia demonstrated to South Ossetia and the entire international community the whole set of clichés and tactical steps with which, in theory, the armed confrontation begins. More precisely, setting up a system of posts along the state border, pulling together power units, seizing strategic (high) positions and firing at a quadcopter of the General Prosecutor’s Office of South Ossetia. In addition, shooting in the direction of the state border, attempting to infiltrate South Ossetian territory by armed groups and even using the EUMM as an element that can provoke Tskhinvali into inadequate behaviour.
RESPONSE
This is an organised disinformation campaign targeting the EU's Monitoring Mission (EUMM) in Georgia. See the EEAS statement which assesses the statements from South Ossetia about security actions and developments as "factually incorrect". It further states: "The attempts from within South Ossetia, both in action and through statements, to prevent the Mission’s work and restrict its mandate are deplorable and must stop." In addition, the EUMM has not confirmed any shots from the Georgian side. The EUMM was deployed immediately following the war between Russia and Georgia in 2008. Its mandate is to support the restoration of ordinary life, to prevent a return to hostilities, to build confidence among the conflict parties and to inform about EU policy. The European Union remains fully committed to peaceful conflict resolution in Georgia and reiterates its firm support to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia within its internationally recognised borders. See earlier case alleging that the EUMM observers violated the administrative boundary line here.