Despite the absence of diplomatic relations since the 2008 war, Russia is once again praising Georgia’s ruling “Georgian Dream” government and speaking about potential “normalization” of ties.
On 16 December, Russian state news agency RIA Novosti reported statements by Mikhail Kalugin, Director of the Fourth Department for CIS Countries at Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
“Moscow is seriously committed to normalizing relations with Georgia, provided that it does not become a ‘pawn’ against Russia,” Kalugin told journalists. He added that “Tbilisi demonstrates healthy pragmatism and a multi-vector approach in foreign policy.”
Kalugin also highlighted that Georgia did not join the anti-Russian sanctions coalition: “Thanks to this, in recent years we have achieved significant economic success. We do not have diplomatic relations, but we maintain active contacts that bring tangible benefits.”
Since the August 2008 war, Georgia has had no diplomatic relations with Russia. Nevertheless, Russian media frequently praises the Georgian Dream government’s anti-Western stance and speaks of normalization.
At the same time, Georgia’s ruling party has adopted repressive laws similar to Russia’s, restricting media, freedom of expression, and civil society. Opposition politicians and pro-European protesters have been arrested under these measures.