Lavrov denies escalation over suspension of funding to Georgia’s occupied Abkhazia

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has dismissed claims of escalation following Russia’s decision to suspend social funding to Georgia’s occupied Abkhazia region.

In an interview with the RBK publication, Lavrov stressed the move was part of “maintaining balance in the obligations” between the governments of Russia and the “Abkhaz government”.

“I wouldn’t call it an escalation. It is the fulfillment of agreements that have been sanctioned by the presidents and approved by the governments of both countries,” Lavrov said. He highlighted the agreements, “ratified by both parliaments, clearly outlined” the obligations of each side, adding that “our Abkhazian friends understand this perfectly.”

Lavrov also mentioned that in early August, while congratulating Sergey Shamba on his return as the de facto Minister of Foreign Affairs of Abkhazia,”he invited him to visit Russia at his convenience.

“I am confident that we will organize this meeting in the coming days or weeks. Meanwhile, other agencies continue their work with counterparts in Sokhumi [the capital of the region]. The key is to honor the agreements reached and approved by the presidents,” Lavrov added.

Russia’s suspension of funding to Abkhazia, which took effect on September 1, affects salaries for teachers, doctors, and law enforcement personnel in the de facto region. Russia will also provide electricity to Abkhazia at commercial rates during the autumn and winter months.