Georgia and the USA: Regional Implications of Partnership for the South Caucasus

Introduction. The South Caucasus remains an area of geopolitical rivalry between the United States, Russia, China, and the European Union, driven by its role in energy transit and the East-West military balance. The Georgian-American partnership is a defining factor in regional dynamics, but its implications for the politics, defense, and economy of the South Caucasus remain understudied. The goal is to identify the scope and direction of the influence of US-Georgian cooperation on regional processes. Materials and Methods. The research is based on an analysis of intergovernmental agreements (2008–2024), strategic documents, statistical data, and media discourse. A set of qualitative methods was applied: historical-political analysis of partnership phases; comparative assessment of responses from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russia, Turkey, and Iran; critical discourse analysis (CDA) of security rhetoric; and event analysis of key initiatives (military exercises, infrastructure projects). Results. Georgia has faced strategic dilemmas: enhancing defense capabilities through Javelin missile supplies and the Noble Partner exercises has increased its dependence on the US. Economic projects have transformed the country into a transit hub but have also created competition with Azerbaijan. Russia has reinforced its base in Gyumri, Iran has developed a transport corridor, and China has intensified its initiatives. Collectively, these developments have contributed to heightened societal polarization, constrained autonomy, and increased sanctions risks for Georgia. Discussion and Conclusion. While the partnership with the US has facilitated infrastructure and armed forces modernization for Georgia, it has also rendered the country vulnerable to external market conditions. Ensuring the resilience of the South Caucasus necessitates the diversification of foreign policy strategies and balanced engagement with regional actors. These findings are applicable for developing energy security strategies and managing transit risks.