Moscow-Tbilisi Flight Resumes After 4 Years: Controversy Arises in Georgia
On May 10, after four years without a direct flight connection between Russia and Georgia, a plane landed in Tbilisi, leaving locals divided on the matter. The flight from Moscow’s Vnukovo airport took slightly over three hours, utilizing the Russian airline Azimuth, which is not subject to international sanctions and operates the Sukhoi Superjet 100.
Conflict Origin: Russian Ban on Georgian Flights
The ban on direct flights was imposed by President Putin in June 2019, following a visit of a Russian delegation to the Georgian Parliament, which sparked massive protests against Moscow’s increasing influence.
Current Controversy: Resuming Flights from Russia
On May 10, 2021, Putin lifted the ban, citing “humanitarian reasons,” as both countries’ citizens, businesses, academics, and cultural actors had been requesting for the resumption of flights. This move by Putin was met with controversy in Georgia, as the pro-European president protested, stating that “flights from Russia” are not welcomed, adding that they are “another Russian provocation,” referring to the ongoing Russian aggression towards Ukraine and the occupied territories in Georgian regions like South Ossetia and Abkhazia.
The Tension in Georgian Society
The move to allow flights from Russia has sparked outrage among Georgians who feel that their country’s independence and sovereignty are threatened by Russia’s reach. Protesters rallied at the Tbilisi airport during the first flight. The Georgian opposition criticized the government for its Moscow-friendly approach, citing the recent law proposal that would have categorized NGOs and media outlets receiving funds from abroad as foreign agents.
Economic Interests Trump Political Tensions
The resumption of flights from Russia indicates that Georgia prioritizes economic interests over political tensions with its northern neighbor. Despite the protests, the majority of Georgians (80%) are committed to joining the European Union and consider it a high priority.
Conclusion
The resumption of direct flights between Russia and Georgia continues to be a divisive issue as Russia’s occupation of Georgian territories and its aggression in the region remain a concern for many Georgians. On the other hand, the resumption of flight service is expected to boost economic activities between the two countries, which may have a positive impact on Georgia’s economic development.