Western Vector of Georgia and Ukraine

Abstract

The article discusses the crisis formed in the relations of Georgia and Ukraine following the invasion of Ukraine by Russia in February of 2022. Particular reasons for the deterioration of ties between Tbilisi and Kyiv have been emphasized in the paper. Despite the fact that the two countries share no border, and the Soviet Union was the only factor which pulled the countries together, positive relations between Georgia and Ukraine was visible from the start, after the break of the Soviet Union. Developing the positive relations was also a result of the desire to be more independent from Russia, as well as, closer toward the Western institutions such as the EU and NATO, which developed the friendship of the countries into a strategic partnership later.  

In the article, there is also a discussion on the military cooperation of Georgia and Ukraine; the participation of Ukrainian volunteers at the war in Georgia’s occupied region of Abkhazia and vice versa – military engagement of Georgian volunteers at the Ukrainian “Anti-terrorist Operations”. (Lugansk, Donetsk). Additionally, the research emphasized in this case as well, that the reason of tension in the relation was the factor of Russia. The Government of Georgia did not exacerbate the already tough relations with Russia and with its over diplomatic announcements, left the particular trace on the quality of cooperation with Ukraine, lasting till today.