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.
Turning away from Georgia now would be short-sighted. It sends the wrong message to Georgians and the international community one of retreat at a moment that demands resolve. A country that has sought closer ties with the transatlantic world should not be left vulnerable.
The United States must urgently reconsider its approach. Continued support for Georgia is not a favor it is a strategic imperative. It serves our democratic values and our long-term interests in a secure, Western-oriented Black Sea region. Principled engagement and constructive dialogue—not disengagement—should define U.S.-Georgia relations going forward.
Likewise, the Republic of Türkiye must act decisively. As a NATO ally, a regional super power, and a country deeply linked to Georgia through history, culture, and trade, Türkiye has much at stake. Georgia is a key transit hub for energy and commerce—home to the Baku–Tbilisi–Ceyhan pipeline and Southern Gas Corridor, both vital to Europe’s energy diversification and Türkiye’s role as an energy bridge. The cities in Turkiye like Artvin, Rize, and Trabzon are directly connected to this strategic geography.
Yet Türkiye’s recent posture has appeared cautious. This is not the time for hesitation. A stable, democratic Georgia strengthens Türkiye’s regional leadership and helps counter malign influence from the north.
As Georgia continues its path toward democratic consolidation, both Washington and Ankara must act with strategic clarity. Independence Day should serve not merely as a ceremony, but as a catalyst for renewed support. Reinstating U.S. assistance and deepening Türkiye’s engagement would reaffirm shared values and commitments.
Let May 26 remind us not of uncertainty, but of enduring solidarity with a nation that has stood beside us. Georgia’s success is not just its own. It is a victory for democracy itself.
(Ibrahim Kurtulus is a Dongan Hills resident.)