Georgia's breakaway regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia are marking the fifth anniversary of Russia's recognition of their independence.
The Kremlin press service said on August 26 that Russian President Vladimir Putin sent telegrams to the leaders of the two separatist regions, vowing that Russia will continue to give them all possible aid and support.
Special events, including the laying of flowers at the memorial of the heroes of 1992-93 Abkhaz-Georgian war and concerts by Russian singers, are taking place in Abkhazia's capital, Sukhumi.
Russia recognized the two regions' independence from Georgia after its forces drove Georgian troops from South Ossetia in a five-day war.
Russia has kept troops stationed in both territories since then.
Georgia considers the two regions its sovereign territories.
The Kremlin press service said on August 26 that Russian President Vladimir Putin sent telegrams to the leaders of the two separatist regions, vowing that Russia will continue to give them all possible aid and support.
Special events, including the laying of flowers at the memorial of the heroes of 1992-93 Abkhaz-Georgian war and concerts by Russian singers, are taking place in Abkhazia's capital, Sukhumi.
Russia recognized the two regions' independence from Georgia after its forces drove Georgian troops from South Ossetia in a five-day war.
Russia has kept troops stationed in both territories since then.
Georgia considers the two regions its sovereign territories.