The annual report of the State Security Service of Georgia (SSSG) for 2023 has been released, detailing the national security landscape over the past year.

The report identifies the Russian occupation of Georgia's territories, including Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region, as the primary threat to the nation's security in 2023. It describes how Russian military bases in these separatist regions have engaged in illegal military operations such as training exercises and the rotation of troops. These bases also played a significant role in the conflict in Ukraine, employing "volunteers" from these regions. Furthermore, the report discusses the Russification efforts through educational projects and establishing a "department" of the Russian Historical Society in Abkhazia aimed at disseminating misinformation and distancing the local populations from Georgian cultural influences.

In 2023, incidents of illegal detentions and the deaths of Georgian citizens, Tamaz Ginturi in Tskhinvali and Vitali (Temur) Karbaia in Abkhazia, by occupying forces were highlighted. These actions contribute to a culture of impunity and foster criminal behaviors in the occupied regions, the report states. The practice of illegal borderization also persisted, with numerous cases reported in both Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region.

The report exposes multiple facets of annexation attempts by Russia in Abkhazia, such as the illegal transfer of the Bichvinta dacha and the ongoing discussions for opening a permanent naval base in Ochamchire to gain strategic military control over the Black Sea. The potential reconstruction of Sokhumi airport and the proposed "Apartment Law" allowing foreign ownership of residential properties are seen as tools for deepening Russian influence and altering the demographic balance. The report also notes the ratification of an agreement by the Russian State Duma permitting dual citizenship, which significantly increases economic dependence on Russia, with cargo turnover between Russia and Abkhazia spiking by 70% since 2018.

In the occupied Tskhinvali region, annexation threats were accentuated by discussions about integrating the region into Russia. Alan Gagloev, the de facto President of occupied Tskhinvali, stated the region's affinity towards becoming "part of Russia." Issues around economic management, including customs operations and Russian financial aid constituting a large portion of Tskhinvali's budget, were also discussed.

The ongoing war in Ukraine has heightened the risk of regional instability, with potential threats including the use of nuclear weapons by Russia. The SSSG uncovered attempts during October-December 2023 to destabilize Georgia and incite civil unrest with foreign backing. Moreover, the influence of foreign special services was evident in efforts to manipulate public opinion and disrupt Georgia's relationships with Western nations.

The threat landscape in 2023 remained dominated by terrorism-related challenges, including concerns over Georgian nationals affiliated with terrorist groups abroad and potential threats to critical infrastructure. However, the SSSG reported a decrease in terrorist financing within Georgia and responded to numerous cyber incidents targeting crucial state entities.