Georgian PM stresses “uncertainty” surrounding Ukraine conflict outcome

In an end-of-year address on Monday, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili brought the spotlight to the “uncertainty” surrounding the outcome of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing the “paramount importance” of national security measures in the face of potential regional destabilization.

Garibashvili commenced his address by asserting that his government’s policies, “guided solely” by the interests of the nation, “successfully averted” a crisis over the past year. 

The Prime Minister drew a contrast to the past, highlighting the “irresponsible actions” of the former government in 2008, while confidently stating that, under current leadership and Bidzina Ivanishvili, the founder of the ruling party,, the Russia-Georgia war would have been prevented.

He noted the “active efforts of radical groups and hostile forces” seeking to draw Georgia into the Russia-Ukraine war, acknowledging the “tangible threat” and the potential for destabilizing the nation. 

 

Despite recognizing that risks had not been entirely eliminated, the Prime Minister asserted his government’s commitment to approaching these risks with “utmost caution and intelligence”.

The ongoing war in Ukraine, according to Garibashvili, has had a profound impact on global norms, with 20 percent of Ukraine’s territory now under Russian occupation and devastating consequences, including loss of lives and mass displacements. The Prime Minister expressed solidarity with Ukraine and its people, highlighting the “immense tragedy” that has befallen the nation and the “maximum support” to both the country and the numerous refugees.

The official stressed the imperative to recognize the shifting global landscape and the potential attempts to alter the existing world order.