South Ossetia leader resigns for Kremlin advisory role

Gagloyev stated that his new position in Moscow will focus on executing a bilateral treaty signed last year. He characterized this agreement as a crucial step toward the territory's long-term goal of formal incorporation into the Russian Federation. South Ossetia, home to approximately 50,000 residents, has functioned as a de facto independent state since the early 1990s, sustained by heavy Russian political and military backing.

The region's status remains a major geopolitical flashpoint. Following the 2008 war between Russia and Georgia, Moscow formally recognized the independence of South Ossetia and neighboring Abkhazia, a move rejected by Tbilisi and most of the international community. While local officials have frequently advocated for full annexation, both Tskhinvali and the Kremlin have avoided scheduling a formal referendum on the matter.