Anti-Russian sentiments are deeply rooted in Georgia, which was annexed by the Russian Empire in the 19th century and, after a short-lived independence, forcibly incorporated into the Soviet Union, writes AFP.
Formal diplomatic relations between the two countries have not existed since Russia invaded Georgia in 2008, following years of tension over Tbilisi’s pro-Western orientation.
The resumption of air traffic comes as Moscow continues its invasion of Ukraine, now entering its second year, with most Western airlines canceling flights to Russia.
An AFP journalist who was at Tbilisi airport reported that the flight operated by Azimuth airline landed at 13:17 local time. A Georgian airline is expected to start flights to Moscow on Saturday.
“Despite the opposition of the Georgian people, Russia has landed in Tbilisi,” wrote on Twitter the pro-European president of Georgia, Salome Zurabishvili.
Holding Georgian and Ukrainian flags, protesters gathered just outside the airport.
“You are not welcome,” read one banner, while a sign held by several people read: “Russia is a terrorist state.”
One of the demonstrators, human rights activist Lana Gvinjilia, said that the resumption of regular flights with Russia “means that our government is cooperating with the Kremlin.”
Russia banned air traffic with Georgia in response to anti-Moscow protests in Tbilisi in 2019.
However, last week Russian President Vladimir Putin suddenly lifted the flight ban, sparking demonstrations by hundreds of people in Georgia.
Putin also introduced a 90-day visa-free regime for Georgian citizens.
Elene Khoshtaria, leader of the opposition Droa party that called for the demonstration, said six protesters had been arrested. She accused the ruling Georgian Dream party of “treason”.
Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili welcomed the return of flights as a “very positive decision” by Vladimir Putin. He pointed out that only Russian airlines and planes that are not affected by Western sanctions will be allowed to operate in Georgia.
He said his government’s attitude toward Russia was shaped by “strategic patience and pragmatic policy.”
Georgia applied for EU membership with Ukraine and Moldova after Russia attacked their western neighbor in February 2022.
Last June, European Union leaders granted formal candidate status to Kyiv and Chisinau, but called on Tbilisi to reform the judicial and electoral systems, improve media freedom and reduce the power of oligarchs.
