The de facto ambassador of Georgia’s Russian-occupied Tskhinvali (South Ossetia) region to Russia, Znaur Gassiev, has called for renewed discussions on a “non-use of force agreement” with Georgia, citing shifting geopolitical conditions.
Speaking to the media, Gassiev highlighted the need to “break the current deadlock” surrounding the issue.
“Not only [Georgia’s Russian-occupied] Abkhazia, but also South Ossetia is raising this issue. We have had several rounds of talks in Geneva. However, Georgia has not yet signed this document,” he said.
“I think that, given the current serious geopolitical changes – and I want these changes to be positive – this issue should be raised from the ground up”, he said.
Both Tskhinvali and Abkhazia, which Russia recognizes as independent states, have long advocated for Georgia to sign a formal commitment to renounce the use of force. However, Tbilisi, along with the wider international community, continues to view these territories as part of Georgia.
Meanwhile, Gassiev also commented on Georgia’s aspirations for European Union membership, suggesting that this could further strain relations.
“I cannot comment on the desire of the Georgian people and government to join any bloc, but for us this, of course, will not be a positive factor for coexistence. South Ossetia lives in the ‘Russian world’, is part of it and is not going to go anywhere,” he said.
The Geneva International Discussions, which have served as the main platform for dialogue since the 2008 Russia-Georgia war, remain the primary diplomatic channel for addressing security and humanitarian concerns in the region. However, progress has been slow, with major disagreements persisting between the parties involved.
