Simultaneously, the Georgian President, Salome Zourabichvili, responded to Russia's recognition of the Donetsk and Lugansk regions of Ukraine as "independent republics."

Salome Zourabichvili noted that Georgia stands by Ukraine.

“Georgia strongly condemns Russia’s “recognition” of Ukraine’s Donetsk and Lugansk regions, repeating the scenario that led to the occupation of 20% of our territory. Georgia stands by you President Zelensky and in support of Ukraine’s territorial integrity and peace”, Salome Zourabichvili tweeted.

The respective statement released after the Russian President Vladimir Putin recognised breakaway rebel regions in Ukraine's east as independent states, effectively ending peace talks there.