Gerasimov: Desires of extraregional players have a destructive impact on the South Caucasus

The desire of the U.S. and the EU to strengthen their positions in the South Caucasus is having a destructive effect on the situation in the region, Valery Gerasimov, Chief of Russia’s General Staff, said.

“The situation in the South Caucasus remains difficult, and the desire of extraregional players, primarily the U.S. and the EU, to strengthen their positions in the region, keep Georgia, and draw Armenia into their sphere of influence has a destructive impact on its development,” Gerasimov said at a press briefing for military attachés from foreign countries.

He noted that the West is seeking to destabilize Georgia by funding and directing protests within the country.