Russia–South Ossetia relations not forgo its independence by joining Russia: "We are not going to say no to our independence, which has been achieved at the expense of many lives; South Ossetia has no plans to join Russia." Civil Georgia has said that this statement contradicts previous ones made by Kokoity earlier that day, when he indicated that South Ossetia would join North Ossetia in the Russian Federation. The South Ossetian and Russian presidents signed an "alliance and integration" treaty on 18 March 2015. The agreement includes provisions to incorporate the South Ossetian military into Russia's armed forces, integrate the customs service of
South Ossetia–Venezuela relations South Ossetia–Venezuela relations South Ossetia–Venezuela relations refers to bilateral foreign relations between the Republic of South Ossetia and Venezuela. Venezuela recognized South Ossetia and Abkhazia on September 10, 2009. Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez announced that his country recognized South Ossetia and Abkhazia when he was hosted by Russian President Dmitry Medvedev. Chávez also announced that formal diplomatic relations will be established with South Ossetia and Abkhazia. Chávez had previously defended Russia's recognition of the two republics, saying "Russia has recognized the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. We support Russia. Russia is right and is defending its interests." After succeeding