On March 5, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Badra Gunba, the de-facto President of separatist Abkhazia, in the Kremlin to discuss bilateral relations, dual citizenship, humanitarian aid, and cooperation between Moscow and Sokhumi.

During the meeting, Putin congratulated Gunba on his electoral victory, highlighting that he received 54.7% of the vote with a 70% turnout. He acknowledged the historical and strategic ties between Russia and Abkhazia, emphasizing their commitment to addressing existing challenges. Gunba, in turn, expressed gratitude for Russia's consistent support in military, political, and socio-economic spheres. He stressed the importance of deepening cooperation with Russia, which he referred to as Abkhazia's "main strategic ally," and reiterated the shared historical and cultural connections between the two nations.

Gunba informed Putin that the volume of humanitarian electricity supplies from Russia to Abkhazia was nearly exhausted and requested additional support. In response, Putin assured that Russia would continue providing assistance. The leaders also discussed the ongoing process of granting Russian citizenship to Abkhaz residents, with Gunba noting that more than 70% of Abkhazia's population already held Russian passports. Putin confirmed that necessary measures would be taken to finalize the dual citizenship process.

Regarding transportation regulations, Gunba raised concerns about new Russian legislation set to take effect on April 1, which would prevent Abkhaz citizens from crossing the border in motor vehicles without a Russian driver's license. He requested a two-year extension for the implementation of this rule to allow Abkhaz residents time to obtain the necessary documentation. Putin agreed to instruct the Russian Interior Ministry to coordinate with the de-facto Abkhaz authorities on this issue.

Separately, the results of the study "The Image of Russia and the CIS in the Minds of the Young People of Abkhazia," conducted under the Russian Ministry of Education and Science, revealed that Abkhaz youth view BRICS and the CIS as the most attractive international organizations. Vladimir Dzhabarov, the Chairman of the Federation Council Committee on International Affairs, considered these findings logical, stating that since the early 1990s, Abkhazia has consistently aligned its foreign policy with Russia. He dismissed claims by alleged provocateurs who sought to destabilize Abkhazia during the election.

Dzhabarov also highlighted Russia's role in providing Abkhaz citizens with educational and cultural opportunities, pointing out that most Abkhaz residents hold Russian passports. He criticized the European Union for refusing to recognize Russian passports issued in Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

Gunba further emphasized the sacrifices made by Abkhaz citizens in World War II, noting that 17,000 people from Abkhazia lost their lives, and 22 were honored as Heroes of the Soviet Union. He thanked Putin for supporting the restoration of war memorials in Abkhazia through the Presidential Fund. He also mentioned that Abkhaz volunteers were participating in Russia's special military operation, with dozens having lost their lives. Gunba affirmed that Abkhazia continues to support the families of fallen soldiers and has sent humanitarian aid to those involved in the conflict.