Russia and Georgia Meet in Geneva but Remain at Odds

Following the 67th round of the Geneva International Discussions, Moscow and Tbilisi once again issued diametrically opposed statements. The Russian Foreign Ministry urged Georgia to conclude a legally binding non-use-of-force agreement with Abkhazia and South Ossetia, while the Georgian Foreign Ministry stated that Russia continues to deepen cooperation with the authorities of the Tskhinvali region in violation of international law.

The Russian Foreign Ministry’s statement asserted that "practical measures" are necessary to ensure security, including the signing of a non-use-of-force agreement between Georgia and the "two sovereign republics." Moscow believes that such a document "would not only provide tangible momentum to the negotiation process but also make a significant contribution to strengthening stability in the region."

Furthermore, the Russian side criticized the UN General Assembly resolution on internally displaced persons and refugees, which had been initiated by Georgia. Moscow stated that such issues should be discussed exclusively within the framework of the Geneva Discussions, where representatives from Abkhazia and South Ossetia participate in the negotiations.

The Georgian Foreign Ministry reported that, during the talks, it had expressed concern regarding the agreement on deepening allied cooperation signed on May 9 between Russia and the South Ossetian authorities. Tbilisi described the document as legally null and void, contrary to international law, and an obstacle to constructive dialogue.

The Georgian delegation also reiterated its demand that Russia fulfill its obligations under the EU-brokered ceasefire agreement of August 12, 2008, and raised the issue of the safe return of displaced persons and refugees. "Representatives of Russia and its occupation regimes, in keeping with established practice, walked out of the negotiating table during the discussion of one of the key agenda items—the return of displaced persons and refugees from the occupied territories to their homes," the Georgian Foreign Ministry stated.

The next, 68th round of the Geneva International Discussions is scheduled for November 2026, according to the parties involved.

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