“He urges the parties to refrain from any action that could further escalate the situation and threaten the stability of the region,” his spokesperson said in a statement.

The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reported earlier this week that almost 1,100 people – including many children – have arrived in North Ossetia-Alania, Russia, by bus from South Ossetia.

The sudden displacement followed clashes over the weekend, including sniper and mortar fire, between Georgian Government and South Ossetian forces.

Some of the arrivals have found shelter in public buildings, such as schools and summer camps, or in private accommodation with friends and relatives, UNHCR said.

News Tracker: past stories on this issue

UN refugee agency heralds new Georgian action plan for displaced persons