Georgian president says Russia establishing naval base in occupied Abkhazia

Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili announced that Russia has commenced initial work on establishing a naval base in the breakaway region of Abkhazia.

“Initial work is being done (by Russia) for the Ochamchire Base. This is a serious problem because it is not only a problem for us, but also for the security of the entire Black Sea region,” Zourabichvili stated during a press conference in Tbilisi late Monday.

Criticism of Georgian government’s policy

Zourabichvili criticized Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze and his government for failing to implement an effective policy toward Abkhazia and the breakaway South Ossetia region. She emphasized that people in these regions should be granted Georgian citizenship.

Russian authorities have not yet responded to Zourabichvili’s claims. But the satellite images show there’s active construction at the naval base in the Abkhazia region.

2008, a five-day conflict erupted between Georgia and Russia over South Ossetia and Abkhazia, resulting in Georgia losing control of both areas. Russia subsequently recognized them as independent states, leading Tbilisi to sever diplomatic ties with Moscow. Despite this, both regions remain internationally recognized as Georgian territories.

In October 2023, Russia and the breakaway Abkhazia region signed an agreement to establish a Black Sea Fleet naval facility in the Ochamchira district.

Foreign influence law, US relations

Zourabichvili also discussed Georgia’s ties with the U.S. and the EU following the signing of the “foreign influence” bill into law in June.

On July 31, the U.S. paused $95 million in assistance to Georgia, consistent with Washington’s decision in May to review bilateral cooperation. The U.S. also postponed a military exercise in Georgia and imposed visa restrictions on dozens of Georgian officials in July and May.

The controversial “foreign influence” law requires organizations receiving more than 20% of their funding from overseas to register with the state and publish annual financial reports. Although initially vetoed by Zourabichvili, the law was passed after the parliament overrode her veto.

Critics argue that the law undermines democracy and label it a “Russian law,” while supporters claim it increases transparency.

Call for government change

Zourabichvili expressed understanding of Washington’s reaction but criticized the restriction of aid. She argued that the current government should not win the upcoming general elections in October and called for a new government to reorganize relations with the West.

“There are many aspects of this government that can and should be punished, but the Georgian army, which our state and defense depends on, cannot be punished,” she added.