TBILISI – Bidzina Ivanishvili, a key figure in Georgian politics and the lead candidate of the ruling Georgian Dream party, has suggested that Georgia might issue an apology for its actions in the 2008 war with Russia. This conflict led to Russia recognizing South Ossetia and Abkhazia as independent states, although most of the international community continues to view these regions as Georgian territory.
Ivanishvili, who is a billionaire former prime minister, made the remarks at a campaign event in Gori, a town that was briefly occupied by Russian forces during the war. He claimed that the war was instigated by the “criminal regime” of former President Mikheil Saakashvili, who, according to Ivanishvili, acted under the influence of foreign powers.
“Immediately after the October 26 elections, those who instigated the war will face justice,” Ivanishvili said, suggesting that an apology could follow this reckoning. His comments have sparked controversy, with Saakashvili’s United National Movement (UNM) party denouncing them as a national disgrace and a betrayal of Georgian interests.
Saakashvili, who is currently serving a six-year prison sentence for abuse of power, was unable to comment on the statement.
The 2008 conflict began when Georgia launched an attack on the separatist region of South Ossetia. Russia’s subsequent military response was described in an EU-commissioned report as excessive. Since then, South Ossetia and Abkhazia have been administered by separatist authorities, with Russia’s support.
Georgia, situated at a strategic crossroads between the West, Russia, and China, is facing a pivotal moment as it heads into its upcoming elections. Ivanishvili’s proposal has added to the tension and debate surrounding the nation’s future direction.