Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova called on Georgian authorities on August 20 to investigate what Moscow describes as “Russophobic” incidents involving Russian citizens in Georgia and ensure that those responsible face legal consequences. She also welcomed statements from Georgian officials that the authorities would take measures against what they describe as Russophobia and protect Russian citizens visiting the country.

Her comments followed renewed remarks by Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Russophobia. At an August 12 briefing, Kobakhidze referred to several incidents involving Russian visitors and presented them as examples of hostile attitudes toward Russians in Georgia.

The issue also drew a strong response from former Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili, who wrote on August 20 that a large influx of Russian citizens was entering Georgia and warned of security and political risks. Saakashvili claimed that 20,000 Russians had crossed into Georgia in a single day and predicted that more than 200,000 could eventually settle in the country.

The figures cited by Saakashvili were rejected by Georgia’s Interior Ministry. The ministry reported that during the relevant 24-hour period, 7,880 citizens of various countries crossed the border through the Lars checkpoint, while 8,406 people left Georgia through the same crossing. It said the figure of 20,000 Russian citizens entering Georgia was inaccurate and urged against the spread of unverified or distorted data.

Saakashvili nevertheless argued that the arrival of Russian citizens could pose national threats, including the presence of individuals linked to Russian security services, and accused the Georgian government of encouraging Russian settlement for political and economic reasons.

The latest statements highlight the contrasting approaches in Tbilisi and Moscow toward relations between the two countries. Zakharova pointed to tourism and other practical ties, while the Georgian government has described its policy toward Russia as pragmatic and centered on national interests.