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Paper short abstract

The case study shows how Ukrainian refugees find unexpected allies in Russian anti-war migrants. Driven by moral imperatives rather than duty, their expression of solidarity fills gaps left by failing state structures and political shifts, providing vital financial and medical aid.

Paper long abstract

Russia’s 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine triggered a mass migration to Georgia, a country well-recognized in the Russian-speaking world. Despite efforts undertaken by the Georgian state, non-governmental organisations and individuals, it is challenging to ensure comprehensive support to all refugees, especially those with specific needs. One of the most vulnerable groups of refugees is the elderly and the chronically ill, who have restricted access to the public healthcare system and medication, and do not possess significant financial resources. Their needs were fulfilled primarily by non-governmental projects financed by USAID – United States Agency for International Development.

One of the most talked-about decisions of Donald Trump’s cabinet was cutting funds aimed at international aid. Sudden and significant restrictions on financial support were poignant for non-governmental and civil society organisations, including those operating in Georgia. Plenty of institutions were forced to restrict or suspend their activities. Additionally, the Georgian parliament, closely aligned with the Kremlin, suspended negotiations about Georgia’s accession to the European Union, which caused mass protests in Tbilisi. These changes in political circumstances have made the implementation of development aid in Georgia almost impossible.

In this context, Ukrainian refugees have found unexpected allies in Russian anti-war migrants, who have organized to provide financial and medical assistance. This paper examines practices of solidarity forged across citizenship lines and power asymmetries. The case study demonstrates how counterintuitive solidarity is filling the gaps left by failing state structures and shifting international priorities.