In 2008, Russia invaded and illegally occupied one-fifth of the Republic of Georgia. Now Moscow’s authoritarian influence again threatens the country.
Georgia’s wealthiest oligarch, Bidzina Ivanishvili, made his fortune in Russia and reportedly maintains business interests there. Meanwhile, anti-Western elements have sought to influence Georgia’s state institutions and civil society in recent years, and relations with the United States and European Union have become increasingly strained.
Russian influence within Georgia has significant implications for Ukraine’s fight for freedom. Tbilisi’s stance toward Kyiv has been lukewarm despite strong public support for helping Ukraine. Georgia’s strategic location and economic dependence on Russia raise concerns that it could become a hub for sanctions evasion. And the recent influx of Russian émigrés has prompted fears that the Kremlin could use their presence as a pretext for further interference or aggression.
Please join leading Georgian and US experts at Hudson Institute for a discussion on countering Russia’s influence in Georgia.
A panel of experts will discuss how the Japanese government should approach domestic political questions, its partnership with America, and Japan’s role in the world.
Hudson will welcome Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Todd Young (R-IN) to discuss their proposal to restore America’s shipping and shipbuilding industries to help deter Chinese aggression.
The Hudson Institute Political Studies Policy Certificate Program gathers talented early career professionals for advanced study of American foreign and domestic policy and national security, led by policy experts and experienced government officials.
As the Trump administration indicates a “tough” new approach toward Havana, join Hudson for an expert discussion on how kleptocracy operates in Cuba and its implications for American policy.
