“Dialogue with Tbilisi is possible only after recognizing reality and signing an agreement on the non-use of force,” stated Badra Gunba, leader of the separatist republic of Abkhazia, in an interview with RIA Novosti.

“The political elite of Georgia has not come to terms with reality. Abkhazia is an independent state. We should ask our citizens whether they feel occupied. We are free, developing our culture and traditions. This is independence. Georgia’s statements are merely political,” he noted.

According to Gunba, Abkhazia’s priority is “to live in peace with all its neighbors.” “We want good neighborly relations with Georgia, but its leadership must acknowledge that they are dealing with an independent state that seeks neither war nor conflict. This priority was set by Vladislav Ardzinba during the national liberation movement, and it remains unchanged,” he added.

When asked about the Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow on the eve of Victory Day, Gunba called it “state terrorism.” “The Ukrainian authorities are attacking memory itself. Were it not for the heroes of the Soviet era, Ukraine might not exist in its previous form. We see manifestations of neo-fascism, attempts to erase history and spoil the holiday for millions. But these attempts are doomed to fail,” he said.

Gunba also commented on the domestic political situation in Abkhazia, stating that “the situation has stabilized.” He noted, “People are tired of politics and populism.”

“We need to work, create, and improve the lives of our citizens,” Gunba emphasized. The Abkhaz leader recently participated in events in Moscow commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany. On May 10, he was received in the Kremlin by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Gunba invited Putin to visit Abkhazia, and Putin accepted the invitation.