Putin Comments on Russian-Georgian Relations

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on January 31 that the policy exerted by the Georgian leadership towards Russia, especially during the recent energy crisis, hinders improvement of bilateral ties, which “will not improve the living conditions of an ordinary Georgian citizen.”

He said that progress in Russo-Georgian relations depends on the “capabilities of separate political figures in Georgia to adequately assess the situation in mutual relations with Russia.”

Putin was speaking with about 1,000 reporters from Russia and abroad at a press conference in the Kremlin.
 
“Yes, a misfortune happened and the [gas] supplies were suspended. Our experts were working day and night in the mountains under the condition of -30C temperatures in order to restore gas supplies to Georgia. And what we received in response from the Georgian authorities – only spitting towards us. The citizens of Georgia should know that such a policy regarding Russia will not improve the living conditions of an ordinary Georgian citizen. And the Georgian authorities will bear the responsibility for this. As for our intentions, we think that the Georgian people are more close to us, by their history and culture. How many Georgians lived and still live in Russia? How many citizens of the Russian Federation and former Soviet Union have contributed to the development and strengthening of Russia? We appreciate it greatly and never forget this. We hope that this is a good bridge for strengthening friendly relations in almost all directions. We are ready for it,” Putin said.

Georgian President Saakashvili blamed Moscow for masterminding a “series of sabotage acts” against Georgia after a high-voltage power line and two vital gas pipelines were blown up in Russia’s North Caucasus on January 22. President Saakashvili labeled Russia “an unprincipled blackmailer.”