“If not for the steadfast position of the government, the war would have re-erupted, and we could very well have faced a second Ukraine. Three years later, everyone must reflect on their stance during those turbulent days when voices, such as nowadays Orjonikidzes, called for escalation,” said Georgian Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili at the memorial for the fallen junkers in Kojori.

According to the Speaker, a true patriot prioritizes the national interests above all else.

“Today, we pay tribute to the brave souls who sacrificed their lives 104 years ago in February 1921 to protect Georgia’s independence. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of the region in which we reside. Our independence has always faced formidable challenges.

Regrettably, we were unable to preserve our independence in 1921. Even back then, we witnessed Georgians who acted against the nation’s sovereignty, alongside countries and foreign groups that offered support but ultimately left our junkers and soldiers to fight for the country against overwhelming odds.

Georgia’s independence came to an end here 104 years ago. Time has passed, yet our commitment to safeguarding that independence remains as vital today as it did in the past. Exactly three years ago, on February 25, 2022, coinciding with the onset of the war in Ukraine, the Georgian Prime Minister articulated our nation’s policy.

Now, three years on, everyone recognizes the soundness of that government policy. There were those—like Orjonikidze—demanding an escalation from the Georgian government, advocating for sanctions and the closure of our skies and borders.

Such demands would have led us directly to escalation, a new war, and inevitably, a re-invasion of our independence and sovereignty. What we observe is that those voices advocating for escalation are still present among us. Three years later, it is evident that this war could have been prevented—a sentiment echoed by the U.S. administration, which was deeply involved in providing military, political, and intelligence support.

We also understand that had it not been for the government’s principled stance, the conflict would have recurred, and we might have found ourselves facing a second Ukraine.

Therefore, I believe it is essential for everyone to reflect on where the Orjonikidzes of the 21st century stood three years ago—particularly during these very days—those individuals who called for escalation in Georgia. May they come to recognize that a true patriot should never place anything above the national interests,” Shalva Papuashvili declared.