Russia is building a new naval base in a small port on the Black Sea. This port is in Ochamchire, a region called Abkhazia, which is officially part of Georgia. But for years, Abkhazia has been controlled by Russian-backed forces, making it a place where Russia holds power.
The construction of this base started gaining speed in 2023. Satellite images now show that the port is being expanded. It appears that Russia is making the port ready for its warships. Some experts believe that it could be used to refuel and even launch attacks with cruise missiles.
This is happening because of the war in Ukraine. Since 2022, Ukraine has managed to damage or destroy nearly a third of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet. The once-powerful fleet is no longer safe in its main base, Sevastopol, in Crimea. Because of Ukraine’s attacks, Russian warships have been moving to another port called Novorossiysk. However, even this port is not fully secure, so Russia is looking for new options—like Ochamchire.
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The location of this base is important because it is much farther from the main warzone in Ukraine. That means Russian ships could be safer there. However, this move is creating a serious problem. If Ukraine decides to attack this naval base, it could drag Georgia into the war.
How This Threatens Georgia’s Security
Ukraine has always supported Georgia’s independence and does not recognize Russia’s control over Abkhazia. If Ukrainian forces strike this Russian base, it could be seen as an attack on Georgian land. That would put Georgia in a very difficult position.
Georgia is not part of NATO, so it does not have the same military protection as countries like Romania or Bulgaria. If a conflict starts there, Georgia might struggle to defend itself. The Georgian government has tried to stay neutral in the Russia-Ukraine war. But with a Russian naval base so close, it might be forced to take a side.
Many Georgians already feel threatened by Russia. In 2008, Russia invaded Georgia and took control of Abkhazia and another region called South Ossetia. Since then, Russian troops have remained in these areas. The new naval base makes it clear that Russia is not planning to leave. Instead, it is strengthening its hold on Georgian territory.
Some experts say that Russia is using this base not just for military reasons but also to create fear. By building a powerful naval presence so close to Georgia, Russia is sending a message: It is ready to control the Black Sea and challenge anyone who stands against it.
A Threat to Trade and Europe’s Security
This naval base is not just a problem for Georgia—it could also disrupt global trade. The Black Sea is a major route for ships carrying goods between Europe and Asia. A new trade route called the “Middle Corridor” has been growing in importance. It allows goods from China to reach Europe without passing through Russia.
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Georgia has been working hard to build a deep-sea port in Anaklia to support this route. If successful, the Middle Corridor could replace Russia’s old trade network, which was disrupted by sanctions. However, Russia’s new base in Ochamchire is dangerously close to Anaklia. If Russian warships start patrolling the area, it could scare off investors and make trade routes unsafe.
Countries in NATO, including the United States, have been slow to develop a strong strategy for the Black Sea. While Russia continues to expand its military presence, NATO countries are still deciding how to respond. This delay gives Russia an advantage.
For now, the world is watching closely. The construction of this base is more than just a military move—it could shift the balance of power in the Black Sea, threaten trade, and drag Georgia into a war it does not want.
