In the aftermath of the Soviet Union's collapse, Abkhazia, a region with a complex history and a significant ethnic Abkhaz population, sought greater autonomy. The Georgian-Abkhaz conflict, which escalated in the early 1990s, culminated in a civil war that lasted from 1992 to 1993. During this period, local leaders, dissatisfied with Georgian governance, declared Abkhazia a sovereign state. The independence declaration on October 12, 1999, was a pivotal moment, symbolizing the culmination of a protracted struggle for self-determination amidst political tumult. The Abkhaz leadership cited cultural and historical reasons for their separation, arguing that they were a distinct nation with their right to self-governance. The declaration was officially recognized by some countries and supported by various international actors, while Georgia continued to enforce its territorial integrity claims and categorized the movement as separatist, labeling the leadership as illegitimate. The situation was further complicated by the engagement of external actors, including Russia, whose involvement has historically played a significant role in the conflicts in the region.