Georgian Parliament official criticises Kyiv for “ignoring” issue of Ukrainian citizens at Dariali Checkpoint

Irakli Kadagishvili, the Chair of the Regional Policy and Self-Government Committee of the Georgian Parliament, on Saturday voiced disappointment over Ukraine’s lack of response to Georgia’s efforts to address the situation of its own citizens stranded at the Dariali border checkpoint.

In his remarks, Kadagishvili highlighted Georgia’s prioritisation of security due to the serious criminal records of the individuals involved.

“When it comes to a group of people with serious criminal records gathered together, naturally, security issues come first. It is regrettable that the Ukrainian side does not respond at all to the issue concerning its citizens and somewhat ignores the statements made by Georgia, including discussions on this matter, even in a working format”, Kadagishvili said.

Aleksandre Darakhvelidze, the Deputy Interior Minister of Georgia, on Saturday reiterated Georgia's full readiness to take all necessary measures to assist Ukraine in the repatriation of its citizens stranded in the “neutral zone” at the Dariali border crossing.

In his remarks, Darakhvelidze noted that the Georgian Government was even prepared to cover the costs of their return and had proposed multiple mechanisms, including air and sea routes, to facilitate their safe evacuation to Ukraine.