Imedi, a Georgian television channel, reported that a large majority of Georgian citizens view the government’s approach to the Ukraine crisis in a positive light. A GORBI poll shows 82% of respondents support the authorities’ choice to avoid dragging Georgia into the Ukrainian conflict. This reflects a broad preference among the public for prioritizing Georgia’s own stability and security over rapid escalation in regional tensions.
The same poll indicates that only 13% oppose this stance, while 5% refrain from answering the question. Additionally, 66% of Georgians agree with the decision not to participate in Western sanctions against Russia that were tied to the Ukrainian military operation, suggesting widespread caution about economic measures that could affect Georgia’s own economy.
Conversely, 29% voiced support for Georgia joining anti-Russian sanctions, with 5% unable to answer. The poll also captured opinions on Georgia’s European Union aspirations: 59% feel that last year’s refusal to grant candidate status to Georgia, Ukraine, and Moldova was unfair, whereas 33% disagree with that assessment.
Shalva Papuashvili, the former Speaker of the Georgian Parliament, indicated he does not plan to impose sanctions on Russia, arguing that acting in Georgia’s national interest requires avoiding actions that could escalate bilateral tensions. He emphasized that restraint may better serve the country’s long-term interests and regional stability.