Skakov: Putin's fast departure from Pitsunda indicates worsening of Russian-Abkhazian relations

The Moscow-Sukhumi relations are passing through hard times; and this explains the rapid departure of Vladimir Putin from Pitsunda on the eve of the day of international recognition of the republic's independence. This was stated by Alexander Skakov, a researcher at the Russian Institute of Strategic Studies. Abkhazian experts did not support this opinion.

Let us remind you that on August 25 the Russian President Vladimir Putin made a one-say working visit to Abkhazia.

"First, there are serious delays with funding – the promised money does not come from Moscow to Abkhazia in due terms. Secondly, there is a characteristic for the countries of the former Soviet Union crisis of confidence in the power among the population of Abkhazia," Alexander Skakov told the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent.

Mr Skakov also believes that the Abkhaz government is not happy with the rapprochement between Russia and Georgia, who signed a series of agreements on supplies of wines and mineral water.

The reason for Putin's rapid departure should be sought in his dense schedule, said Batal Kobakhiya, a human rights activist and former Abkhazian MP. He added that there is no information about the topics discussed at the summit.

Presidential meetings in an informal setting before great public holidays are a standard communication mechanism between two countries, said the expert.

Today, Vladimir Putin has congratulated the President of Abkhazia Alexander Ankvab on the occasion of the fifth anniversary of recognition of the sovereignty of his republic.

In its turn, Georgia has sent – through the Swiss Embassy – a protest note to Russia in connection with the President Vladimir Putin's visit to Abkhazia, said Maya Pandjikidze, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia.