Georgia denies entry to dozens claiming Ukrainian citizenship due to safety reasons

Georgia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) has issued a statement regarding a group of individuals currently stranded in the so-called neutral zone at the Dariali border crossing with Russia. According to the MIA, these individuals, who are attempting to enter Georgia from the Russian Federation using invalid documents and claiming Ukrainian citizenship, have been denied entry due to security concerns.

"Most of these individuals have serious criminal histories and have been convicted multiple times for serious or particularly serious crimes," the statement reads. The MIA noted that the individuals themselves confirmed they had served prison sentences in eastern Ukrainian penitentiary institutions.

“In light of national security interests, these individuals were not granted access to Georgia,” the ministry emphasized.

The Georgian side has reportedly offered several solutions to facilitate the safe return of the individuals to their home country, including both air and sea transport. While Ukraine has not yet agreed to the sea route, consultations are ongoing regarding possible repatriation by air.

“We hope the Ukrainian side will soon make a decision regarding the return of its citizens,” the statement said.

The ministry also reminded the public that there has been an increase in similar cases recently at the Dariali checkpoint, with more than 80 such individuals currently attempting to cross the Georgian border. Most of them, authorities say, fail to meet the entry criteria due to invalid documents or security risks.

Ensuring public safety and maintaining order remains the top priority, the MIA stressed: “All state agencies are taking necessary measures within their competence to ensure the timely return of these individuals to their homeland and to safeguard the security of Georgia’s population.”