Evacuation of Ukrainians from Georgia Possible in Case of Threat Due to the Influx of Russians - Head of Ukraine's Embassy

The Embassy of Ukraine in Georgia does not rule out the possibility of evacuating Ukrainian citizens if they are in danger after the resumption of direct air traffic between Georgia and the Russian Federation.

"If they resume direct air communication and real security risks increase, I want to say that today the embassy does not rule out the possibility of requesting international organisations and our international partners to consider the possibility of assisting in the mass evacuation of Ukrainian citizens from Georgia." Andrii Kasianov, the temporary charge d'affaires of Ukraine in Georgia, said this in an interview with "European Pravda."

"But I underline: if there are real threats to their lives and safety. We will not sit idly by. We will work and provide everything that depends on us to ensure their protection and safety. This is our main priority," the diplomat added.

Kasianov pointed out that given the growing threat of a safe stay in Georgia due to the abnormal influx of Russians, the embassy does everything possible to facilitate the return of citizens to Ukraine.

"Now we are discussing the possibility of organising special evacuation routes specifically for the most vulnerable members of Ukraine, who really do not have the means to return. At the same time, we consider ground transportation as the most optimal," he added.

Sergei Lavrov, Russian Foreign Ministry, expressed hope to restore direct flights between Russia and Georgia at a press conference on January 18.

The leader of "Georgian Dream" Iraklii Kobakhidze liked the idea due to "the interests of Georgians living in Russia."

The President of Georgia, Salome Zourabichvili, spoke against the resumption of direct flights with Russia.

The opposition stated that the government is playing on Russia's side and is doing everything to prevent Georgia from obtaining EU candidate status.