The recent decree signed by President Vladimir Putin to extend Russia’s visa-free regime for Georgian citizens marks a significant step towards closer relations between the two countries. This move comes after Putin lifted a flight ban and introduced a 90-day visa-free regime for Georgians in May 2023.
Effective from October 10, Putin’s latest edict eliminates the 90-day limit and the requirement for Georgians to obtain a work visa when visiting Russia. This development signals a notable shift in relations between Georgia and Russia, which were severed in 2008 following a brief war over separatist territories.
Despite efforts by Georgia to align with the EU and NATO, ties with the West have strained, particularly due to Georgia’s refusal to join sanctions against Russia over the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Additionally, the EU recently canceled €121 million in funds for Georgia due to concerns about “democratic backsliding.”
In response to Putin’s decision to lift the flight ban in 2023, Georgia’s government welcomed the move, while ceremonial President Salome Zourabichvili criticized it as a “provocation.” Zourabichvili has yet to comment on the latest expansion of the visa-free regime for Georgians.