A protest rally was held today outside Georgia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where truck drivers gathered to demand action against the new restrictions imposed by Russia. The protesters say the regulations are severely affecting their ability to work and support their families.
According to available information, Russia has begun fining and deporting Georgian drivers, citing alleged visa regime violations. Under the new rules, the visa-free stay period for Georgian drivers has been reduced from 180 to 90 days, making cross-border freight transport increasingly difficult.
As participants explained, the new regulations have created both professional and social hardships. Many drivers have existing bank obligations and are the primary earners for their families. The protesters called on the Foreign Ministry to intervene diplomatically and negotiate a resolution with Russian authorities.
“Truck drivers are unable to carry out transit transportation in Russia. Most have valid contracts but are being fined or deported, which makes it impossible to deliver cargo,” said Paata Tsagareishvili, director of the Transport Corridor Research Center and one of the rally’s organizers. Around 50 drivers took part in the protest. According to Tsagareishvili, the ministry has promised to look into the issue, though no specific timeline was given.
