Zelenskyy regrets lack of ties with Georgian Government, calls for “self-determination” in elections

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, speaking to Georgian Mtavari TV channel in Budapest, expressed disappointment over Ukraine’s lack of current diplomatic relations with the Georgian government.

He emphasized Ukraine’s appreciation for the Georgian people’s support throughout the war, while lamenting the state of official ties, saying, “today we have no ties with the Georgian government. I think it is very regrettable.”

Zelenskyy also highlighted the “historical solidarity” between the two countries, noting, “our people are very grateful for the support of the Georgian people during this full-scale war… We have always supported your territorial integrity and sovereignty.”

Commenting on Georgia’s recent October 26 elections, Zelenskyy warned against Russian influence, stressing that “the Georgian people should choose the government themselves, [and] Russia should not have an influence on this.”

On Georgia’s European aspirations, Zelenskyy expressed optimism despite the current political pause, saying, “I know that you have a long pause on the way to the European Union, but I am sure that you will get there. You will win.”