Session 8 – Armies And Nations: The Role of the Georgian Military Since Independence

May 16, 2026, 1pm EST

Georgia has a long martial tradition, and many times has successfully defended itself against larger armies. Yet Georgia, subject to imperial occupation and hegemony, was unable for many centuries to establish a united military force of its own. After independence in 1991, Georgia created its own army and defended its own territory in 2008 from a foreign invasion. How important is the Georgian military to the security of the Georgan state?  Is it ready to defend the country against the multiple national security threats that face it today?

Host: Shota Gvineria

Guests: Tina Khidasheli, Giorgi Shaishmelashvili

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