Georgia Between East and West: Foreign Policy Choices amid Regional Transformation

The South Caucasus is one of the most complex and strategically significant regions in the world. Georgia, situated at the crossroads of East and West, faces a particularly challenging foreign policy environment shaped by historical legacies, ethnic dynamics, and the interests of major powers. Post-Soviet developments demonstrate that domestic decision-making significantly influences the country’s trajectory, while external actors—Europe, Russia, Turkey, China, and the Arab world—also play critical roles. As of early 2026, Georgia’s long-standing strategy of European Union (EU) and NATO integration is confronted by diminishing returns, domestic political tensions, and evolving regional dynamics. Simultaneously, Georgia is diversifying its foreign relations to secure pragmatic economic and security advantages. This article examines opportunities, risks, and trade-offs in Georgia’s foreign policy, exploring economic, political, and social dimensions, and presenting strategic scenarios to guide the country’s long-term stability and international engagement.