**Russian Company Tied to Kremlin Takes Control of Sokhumi Airport**
A company with close ties to the Russian government is now operating the Sokhumi airport in Georgia. The owner’s father is a high-ranking FSB general, and the restoration of the airport was controlled by Russia’s special services.
According to Paata Davitaia, chairman of the European Democrats party, Russia took advantage of the war with Ukraine to restore flights at the airport. Despite being under international sanctions, Russia can still fly to countries that are not affected by these sanctions.
**Airport Restored Under Russian Control**
Davitaia claims that the Georgian government did nothing to stop Russia from restoring flights at the Sokhumi airport. In fact, he says the Ministry of Foreign Affairs didn’t even make a statement about it. This has allowed Russia to operate flights without consequences.
The company now operating the airport is planning to resume regular flights on May 1st. This move has alleviated pressure on Russia’s own Sochi Tuapse airport and may lead to further construction, including cargo planes.
**Russian Infrastructure in Georgia**
Davitaia warns that if negotiations with Ukraine ease and the situation improves, Georgia should take action to stop these developments. He says there are no local pilots or technical dispatchers to handle the planes, which will be handled by Russians instead.
The Sokhumi airport is unique because it can land in both directions, making it more advantageous than other airports. If left unaddressed, Russia may become accustomed to operating flights from this location, further increasing their infrastructure in Georgia.
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