Georgia Rejects the Possibility of Restoring Diplomatic Relations with Russia

Georgia's Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze rejected the possibility of restoring diplomatic relations with Russia regarding the status of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. This was stated in an interview with Rustavi 2. The Prime Minister emphasized that Georgia's policy towards Russia is 'very clear.' Tbilisi has 'red lines' concerning the issue of 'occupation,' Kobakhidze announced.

‘As long as the occupation of 20% of our territory, two historical regions, continues, it is naturally impossible to restore diplomatic relations,’ he stated.

On August 8, 2008, Georgia shelled South Ossetia and subsequently deployed troops into the republic, resulting in the destruction of Tskhinvali. Immediately after that, Russia sent troops into South Ossetia and expelled Georgian forces within five days. On August 26, 2008, Russia recognized the sovereignty of South Ossetia and Abkhazia.

On August 8, 2025, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced that the administration of former Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili had caused significant harm to the national interests of the republic by initiating military operations in August 2008.