Fearing Coronavirus, Tskhinvali Closes All Crossing Points

Anatoly Bibilov, Moscow-backed leader of Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia announced on February 27 that all crossing points connecting the region to Georgia proper will be closed to prevent the novel coronavirus from spreading. 

Bibilov made the announcement at a “security council” meeting, a day after Tbilisi confirmed the first case of the COVID-19 virus in the country.

“The virus is being spread throughout the world; now it has reached  neighboring Georgia. This is a serious challenge for South Ossetia, and the reaction should be rapid, but, at the same time, balanced and to the point,” Bibilov stated.

Fearing coronavirus, Sokhumi has also reportedly imposed temporary restrictions on Enguri Bridge crossing point, connecting the region with Georgia proper. Until April 7, Moscow-backed Abkhaz authorities will ensure enhanced control and apply quarantine measures along the administrative boundary line with Georgia. 

According to Apsnypress, local news agency, Abkhaz authorities will also apply quarantine measures on Psou border crossing point, Georgia’s westernmost Sokhumi-controlled point, connecting the region to Russia. 

Earlier on February 25, Sokhumi extended a travel ban which bars “foreign nationals” from entering the occupied region. However, the ban excludes nationals of the Russian Federation.

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