The Georgian defence ministry on Tuesday claimed its absence in a large-scale, US-organised Defender 23 military exercises in Europe between April 22 and June 23 had been agreed with the major strategic partner, the United States, pointing to “other necessities” at this stage. 

“Based on the goals and objectives of the country’s defence  forces, through active communication with our main strategic partner and their recommendation, it was decided to direct more efforts and resources to such international and local exercises that are expected to further boost Georgia’s combat readiness and interoperability with NATO member and partner states”, the ministry said. 

The body noted the non-participation in the exercises should not be seen as a problem, as the country had been scheduled to participate in 20 international exercises this year. 

The part of domestic opposition and military professionals have slammed the government's move and said it was an example of its “derailing” from the Euro-Atlantic course. 

The US Department of Defence said the exercises would focus on "strategic redeployment of US-based forces, provision of pre-prepared military supplies and increased interoperability with European allies and partners".

Approximately 9,000 US military personnel will participate in the exercise, along with 17,000 servicemembers from allied and partner countries on the territory of 10 European countries.