President Bzhania Responds to Zelensky's Call for Georgia to Engage in Conflict
Aslan Bzhania, President of the Republic of Abkhazia.
SUKHUM / AQW'A ― President Aslan Bzhania expressed his conviction that it is not in Georgia's best interest to engage in conflict with Abkhazia and South Ossetia. He emphasised Tbilisi's inclination towards restraint and pragmatism on this issue. This statement came in response to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's recent proposition for Georgia to enter into hostilities with Abkhazia and South Ossetia.
During a press conference held in Sukhum, Bzhania said, "It is evident that Mr. Zelensky, along with certain forces supporting him, aim to ignite a military situation in Transcaucasia. Their intent is clear – to escalate a violent conflict in our region. The motives behind these provocations seem to be the Ukrainian leadership's desire to widen the conflict zone and form an 'instability belt' surrounding the Russian Federation. Disturbingly, the potential human cost, including potential harm to civilians, women, children, and the elderly, appears to be overlooked."
Bzhania further highlighted that this isn't the first time such remarks have come from Zelensky. He stated, "I urge you to notice the lukewarm or even absent response from the West, indicating their agreement with such views towards Abkhazia. Such nuances expose the true intent of several Western leaders. It's essential for our citizens to recognize who our genuine adversaries are and to remain vigilant against potential provocations."
Concluding his statement, President Bzhania expressed faith in Georgia's current leadership, advocating for a peaceful approach. He emphasised, "I don't see war as a beneficial choice for Georgia currently. Nevertheless, I would like to formally assure that the defence capability of our nation will be firmly backed by the armed forces of the Republic of Abkhazia, in conjunction with our allies."
Georgian Parliament Member Comments on Zelensky's Statement
Beka Odisharia, a prominent member of the ruling party in the Georgian parliament, has weighed in on the recent remarks made by the Ukrainian president. Emphasizing Georgia's commitment to peaceful resolutions, Odisharia underscored the nation's "peace plan, which prioritizes restoring connections with the Abkhazians and Ossetians, followed by addressing territorial disputes."
"Our aim is to find paths to mutual understanding and harmony. Georgians, Abkhazians, and Ossetians are destined to coexist in peace," Odisharia expressed.
He concluded by extending a message to the people of Ukraine, hoping that "the Ukrainian authorities will address their own internal challenges related to territorial integrity before directing others."