General Ben Hodges stated that Kremlin’s persistent desire is to draw Georgia back into its sphere of influence and re-establish control over its politics.
“The Kremlin has always hoped to pull Georgia into its control to dictate its foreign policy. This has always been the Kremlin’s intention, and it worries me to see Georgian leaders turning back towards Russia,” he stated.
Hodges emphasized that the salvation of Georgia begins with its vibrant youth making choices to support their country and ensure that Russia does not dictate Georgia’s future.
“They will certainly try to generate fear, suggesting that Georgia would be better off if it bows down and submits to Russia to avoid another invasion. Imagine the Georgian people, who have fought for freedom all these years, hearing some politicians say it’s better to submit to the Kremlin’s governance and influence. I don’t believe the Georgian population actually wants that,” he said.
Hodges highlighted that Russia has yet to defeat Ukraine, and while it has significant military resources, he does not consider the threat of an invasion of Georgia to be substantial at this time.
“The salvation of Georgia starts with its brilliant youth making their own choices to support their country, ensuring that Russia does not make decisions about Georgia’s future. This is where salvation begins,” he explained.
He added that the West, including the United States and the European Union, must view the Black Sea region as a whole in strategic terms.
“I still believe that Georgia belongs in the European Union and NATO, and I hope that one day Georgia will be part of these organizations,” Hodges concluded.
