James Stavridis, a former NATO leader, speaks on Georgia and NATO

By Anastasia Sokhadze

Tuesday, August 25

The former commander-in-chief of NATO also talks about the occupied territories and their importance.

What will make it easier for Georgia to join NATO when the Russian army continues to occupy 20 percent of the country?

James Stavridis, a former NATO leader stated it will be very difficult to persuade the Allies to help the Alliance return Georgian territory. However, he believes that if Georgia becomes a member of the alliance first and then tries to return the occupied territories, it will make it easier to persuade all NATO members. Stavridis says that during the invasion of Georgia, Russia first used hybrid warfare methods, which were later refined.

"I think at that time there was still hope that somehow we could reset this relationship, we would find a better way, we would not suddenly enter a new Cold War. We have not properly assessed Vladimir Putin and his antipathy, his personal, deep hatred of the United States, and NATO itself. So we took the opportunity - we didn't have a strong enough reaction in terms of economic sanctions, military equipment or training, to make sure that the rest of Georgia became a difficult target for Russia and that they would not dare to do anything else. I think if we had done that, the tragedy in Ukraine would not have happened either," said Stavridis.

As more time passes, South Ossetia and Abkhazia become frozen conflicts. According to Stavridis, it increases Georgia's chances of joining NATO.

“I think that Georgia, in particular, has gained its place in NATO, whether it is the result of the war in Afghanistan or the courage with which it opposes the oppressive state. If I were Georgian or Ukrainian, I would try to consolidate and enter under NATO tents and get these territories back. In any case, it is a very difficult path, but if I were you, I would rather be a member of NATO than a NATO partner. However, I would like to add that it is up to Georgians to decide, not Americans, or the former NATO leaders. This is a decision of the country, which is in a very difficult position," claimed Stavridis.

The former Admiral also added that when they look at their partners and allies, they should have very, very strong positions against Vladimir Putin, and that should include military, economic and diplomatic efforts.

Georgia is a strong partner of NATO and a particularly strong partner for the United States. Georgia's economy, like all other countries' economies, faces challenges. However, the fundamental factor, which is human capital, is extremely high in Georgia. It is a small country with great potential that has a bright future ahead, despite the difficulties it has faced in the last 12 years since the Russian invasion.