Georgia continues to bear scars of Russian occupation – Eminence Grigol

Eminence Grigol, the Metropolitan of Poti and Khobi in western Georgia, on Monday reacted to the 1921 Red Army invasion of Georgia, which put an end to the three-year-rule of the First Democratic Republic of Georgia, claiming his country continued to “bear the scars” of Russian occupation. 

“Today, according to the civil calendar of Georgia, marks one of the most somber days in our nation’s history, as we remember the sacrifices of our defenders and the tragic invasion by the Russian army,” he said and stressed the thinking of the Georgian people still suffering the trace of the events. 

Reflecting on the lingering impact of Russian aggression, Eminence Grigol also drew parallels with Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, condemning the “brazen attacks aimed at undermining Ukraine’s sovereignty and exhausting its people”. 

“Two years ago, Russia launched a defiant and brazen assault on Ukraine, a war that persists to this day, intended to erode the spirit of a resilient nation,” remarked Metropolitan Grigol. “We stand in solidarity with Ukraine, recognizing their right to independence and existence. Our nation has offered what support it can, with many Georgians actively involved in the conflict. The pain of such aggression resonates deeply with us, having faced similar challenges in our own history.”

Expressing a call for mutual respect and recognition among nations, the cleric underscored the importance of upholding the principles of freedom and sovereignty. “The limits of our freedom end where another’s begin. A truly peaceful and civilized society is built on foundations of mutual respect and understanding,” he concluded.