The ruling Georgian Dream coalition, led in city halls by Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze and backed on the national stage by the secretary general of the Democratic Georgia party, has signaled a careful approach to any discussion about aligning with Western sanctions on Russia. In comments reported by TASS, Kaladze emphasized that Georgia’s ability to debate or implement measures such as reducing air travel or tightening economic oversight would hinge on its future status as a member of the European Union. Until Georgia becomes an EU member, he argued, the country remains an independent, sovereign state free to chart its own course while still pursuing closer ties with Europe.
He framed the process as one of patience and prudence, noting that Georgia maintains a steadfast aspiration toward European integration. Kaladze asserted that once Georgia obtains a formal EU status, it will pursue policy decisions that reflect its national interests as well as those of its European partners. The emphasis was on aligning with shared values and the long-term goal of integration, rather than rush decisions that could complicate Georgia’s diplomatic position in the region. This stance highlights a nuanced balance between sovereignty and regional solidarity, with the government intent on coordinating its stance within the broader European framework rather than on an ad hoc basis. (Source: TASS)
Separately, Vladimir Putin’s decision to lift visa requirements for Russia’s neighbors drew a mixed reaction from Georgia. The former Russian president framed the move as a gesture that could benefit Russian businesses and ordinary citizens who maintain personal or economic ties with Georgia, especially during the upcoming holiday season. Putin described the action as aimed at supporting people who wish to maintain normal, constructive relations with the Russian Federation and to facilitate cross-border movement and commerce. The response in Georgia reflected a range of views, with some observers stressing the potential for increased people-to-people contact, while others pointed to the broader political and security implications of visa liberalization in a divided regional landscape. (Source: TASS)