As Georgia marks its Independence Day on May 26, the occasion calls for reflection — not just for Georgians, but for allies like the United States and the Republic of Türkiye. Both nations have long-standing ties with Georgia, and both now face a defining choice: to reaffirm their support for a young democracy or risk undermining decades of democratic progress and regional stability.
In July 2024, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the suspension of more than $95 million in assistance to the Georgian government, following a bilateral review initiated in May. While some aid to civil society remains, this sharp shift in policy could destabilize one of the few democracies in the Caucasus and create a vacuum for greater Russian influence in a geopolitically sensitive region.
Georgia has reaffirmed its commitment to Euro-Atlantic integration a message reiterated by its diplomats at a recent reception I attended in New York. For over 30 years, U.S. support has helped build Georgia’s civil and defense infrastructure, trained educators and doctors, and strengthened its coast guard and armed forces. These investments have fortified both national resilience and regional security.