Georgia has turned away from the West and will not return to it — NYT
NYT: Georgia will not return to the West
The New York Times has published an article titled "Georgia Has Turned Away From the West and Will Not Return to It," in which the author argues that Georgia has made a strategic decision to align itself with Russia and China, and that it is unlikely to return to the West in the near future.
The author cites several factors that have contributed to Georgia's decision to turn away from the West, including the country's historical ties to Russia, its dependence on Russian energy, and its fear of NATO expansion.
Georgia's historical ties to Russia
Georgia has a long and complicated history with Russia. The two countries have been at war on several occasions, and Russia has occupied parts of Georgia since 2008.
Despite these tensions, the two countries have also maintained close economic and cultural ties. Russia is Georgia's largest trading partner, and many Georgians speak Russian as a second language.
Georgia's dependence on Russian energy
Georgia is heavily dependent on Russian energy. The country imports most of its natural gas and oil from Russia, and it is also reliant on Russian electricity.
This dependence gives Russia a significant amount of leverage over Georgia. Russia has used its energy supplies to pressure Georgia on several occasions, including in 2006, when it cut off gas supplies to the country.
Georgia's fear of NATO expansion
Georgia is also concerned about NATO expansion. The country has applied for membership in NATO, but its application has been blocked by Russia.
Georgia fears that NATO expansion would provoke Russia and lead to a war. The country is also concerned that NATO membership would make it a target for Russian aggression.
The consequences of Georgia's decision
Georgia's decision to turn away from the West has had several consequences.
First, it has led to a decline in Georgia's relations with the West. The United States and the European Union have both criticized Georgia's decision to align itself with Russia.
Second, it has made Georgia more vulnerable to Russian pressure. Russia has already used its energy supplies to pressure Georgia on several occasions, and it is likely to continue to do so in the future.
Third, it has reduced Georgia's chances of joining NATO. NATO is unlikely to admit a country that is allied with Russia.
Conclusion
Georgia's decision to turn away from the West has had a significant impact on the country's relations with the West, its vulnerability to Russian pressure, and its chances of joining NATO.
It is unclear whether Georgia will ever return to the West. However, it is clear that the country's decision to align itself with Russia has had a number of negative consequences.
