An underlying theme throughout the press conference was Abkhazia’s dependence on external factors, primarily regarding interactions with Russia.
While Abkhazia has investment potential, structural vulnerabilities and a key dependence on Russia limit project realisations.
Russia has reportedly listed multiple journalists and opposition figures as foreign agents or revoked their Russian citizenships.
Gunba’s inauguration was attended by representatives of Russia, South Ossetia, Nicaragua, Venezuela, and Transnistria.
In the days since the Kremlin-favoured candidate won, authorities have increasingly cracked down on political opponents.
The travel advisory had been in effect since November 2024, following the protests in Abkhazia that ousted former President Aslan Bzhaniya.
Following the meeting, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov announced that Russia would begin providing Abkhazia with emergency energy assistance.
