Putin meets with occupied Abkhazia’s new de facto leader in Moscow

Russian President Vladimir Putin met with occupied Abkhazia’s newly elected de facto leader, Badra Gunba, in the Kremlin.

“The people of Abkhazia remember the historic decision recognizing our statehood. On behalf of the people of Abkhazia, allow me to express our gratitude for this. Russia has always remained committed to this support, whether in military-political, social, or economic matters, and the people of Abkhazia undoubtedly feel it,” Gunba said, according to Abkhazian media.

He also highlighted Abkhazia’s electricity shortages and requested further assistance from Russia. Putin assured him that Moscow would help resolve the issue.

Putin and Gunba also discussed expanding Russian citizenship to more Abkhazians.

“We need to define a mechanism that will practically ensure the process of granting dual citizenship—specifically Russian citizenship—to Abkhazians. Thanks to your support, more than 70% of our citizens have already received Russian passports. However, some people have not been able to take advantage of this opportunity. If possible, we would like to extend this program once again,” Abkhazia’s de facto leader said.

Putin assured Gunba that the program would continue.

“It is essentially already prepared, and we will proceed with its implementation. I will instruct my colleagues to review the details with you once again and make any necessary adjustments, but we will definitely continue this work,” Putin stated.