US State Department Re-iterates Concern about Direct Flights between Georgia and Russia

During a press briefing held on May 22 Matthew Miller, the US Department spokesperson, said: "We have been concerned about direct flights between Russia and Georgia resuming" adding that "now is not the time to increase engagement with Russia". The journalist asked about the US State Department's reaction or possible sanctions in response to the latest developments in Georgia, noting that "Lavrov's sanctioned daughter showed up in Georgia, Russian aircraft showed up in Tbilisi, and Georgian aircraft is poised to fly to Moscow". Miller responded: "So, I will say with respect to Russian aircraft in Georgia: many Western countries, including the United States, prohibit Russian aircraft from entering airspace." He further expressed concern about the resumption of direct flights between Russia and Georgia, suggesting that this could potentially lead to sanctions against companies operating in Georgian airports. Miller emphasized: "We – the entire Western community have distanced itself from this regime, and now is not the time to increase engagement with Russia." 16/05/2023 - EU on Georgia’s Decision to Issue Permit for Direct Flights with Russia: “This is Very Regrettable” 12/05/2023 – US State Department Spokesperson Does not Exclude Sanctioning Companies at Georgian Airports Following Lifting of Flight Ban by Russia 11/05/2023 – “This is Positive and Welcome”-PM on Restoration of Visa-Free Travel and Flights to Russia 11/05/2023 – U.S. Ambassador on Flights: Georgia doesn’t have to become dependent on Russia again 10/05/2023 – “Another Russian Provocation!” – President on Russia’s Abolition of Visa Regime to Georgia