The Georgian War refers to the conflict that occurred in August 2008 between Georgia and the separatist regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, which are supported by Russia. The war began when Georgian forces attempted to regain control over South Ossetia, leading to a rapid military response from Russia, which intervened on behalf of the separatists. The conflict lasted for five days and resulted in significant casualties and displacement of civilians. A ceasefire was brokered by French President Nicolas Sarkozy, who was then holding the presidency of the European Union. Following the war, Russia recognized South Ossetia and Abkhazia as independent states, further complicating the geopolitical situation in the region.