US’ move to postpone Noble Partner exercise in Georgia risks conceding positions in S. Caucasus, Vice Speaker

Vice Speaker Gia Volski of the Georgian Parliament on Wednesday voiced criticism following the US decision this week to indefinitely postpone the Noble Partner military exercise in Georgia. Emphasizing the strategic implications for the South Caucasus region, Volski argued that such a move could weaken regional positions vis-à-vis Russia, labeling it a potential concession amidst escalating geopolitical tensions.

In a statement to journalists, Volski underscored that the postponement of military training signified a setback for Georgia’s defense readiness, especially in the face of ongoing threats from Russia. He expressed concern that reducing military exercises and aid could play into the hands of opposition entities within Georgia and strategic adversaries like Russia, echoing historical parallels to pre-2008 dynamics.

The US decision comes in response to Georgia’s recent adoption of a controversial foreign influence transparency law, which has sparked political controversy and drawn criticism from Western allies.

“We cannot afford to undermine our military preparedness at a time when Russian aggression remains a stark reality,” Volski asserted. 

 

“This decision not only risks weakening our defenses but also sends a troubling message about international solidarity in the face of regional threats.”

He further lamented the allocation of resources, criticizing prioritization of funding for non-governmental organizations over essential military needs. “Support for our armed forces should remain steadfast, particularly as they stand at the forefront of defending Georgian sovereignty,” Volski claimed. 

The Noble Partner exercise, an annual multinational military drill, has been a cornerstone of Georgia’s defense cooperation with NATO and the United States, aimed at enhancing interoperability and readiness against shared security challenges in the region.