Ukraine’s chargé d’affaires to Georgia, Andrei Kasyanov, has announced his departure from the country. The Ukrainian Embassy in Georgia confirmed the news on its Facebook page, noting the decision amid ongoing discussions and evolving regional dynamics. The post of the embassy made clear that the information reflects the official stance of Kyiv and its diplomatic missions in the region during a period of intensified cooperation and shared challenges between Kyiv and Tbilisi.
Reflecting on his time in Georgia, Kasyanov remarked that time has passed quickly in a country described as warm and hospitable. He recalled his first steps on the shores of Batumi four years ago, highlighting the personal and professional milestones achieved during his tenure. The diplomat’s message conveyed appreciation for Georgia as a partner and emphasized the enduring friendship between the two nations within a broader European context.
Beyond personal reflections, Kasyanov emphasized a vision of a united future for Ukraine and Georgia. He asserted that the two countries share more than a history; they are linked by a hopeful trajectory toward a common European outlook. In his view, the goal of joining the European Union and NATO is within reach for both nations, reflecting a growing alignment on security, governance, and democratic principles that resonate across the region.
Since March 2022, Kasyanov has led the Ukrainian Embassy in Georgia, guiding diplomatic engagements and coordination with Georgian authorities. His tenure follows a notable change in Georgia’s diplomatic staffing, when Ukrainian Ambassador Igor Dolgov was recalled by President Volodymyr Zelensky for a position deemed inconsistent with Kyiv’s policies on sanctions and the mobilization of volunteers for Ukraine. The shift underscores the sensitive nature of regional diplomacy where sanctions, security cooperation, and international obligations intersect.
In a separate development linked to Georgia, a Ukrainian diplomat named Andrey Kasyanov faced scrutiny for remarks about the Buk air defense system. He stated that Kyiv had requested the restoration of Buk anti-aircraft missile systems that were transferred to Georgia during the 2008 conflict, a claim that drew attention to how defense provisions and post-conflict military assets are discussed in diplomatic exchanges. The situation highlighted the careful balance diplomats must maintain when describing military assistance and interdependencies among allied states in the Black Sea region.