GEOPOLITICAL TRANSFORMATIONS IN THE BLACK SEA REGION AND GEORGIA'S SECURITY ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

The Black Sea and South Caucasus regions are undergoing significant geopolitical transformation resulting from changes in the regional balance of power, the expansion of transportation and energy connectivity, and the growing involvement of global and regional actors. These developments have direct implications for Georgia, whose strategic geographical position between Europe and Asia makes it an important component of regional transportation, energy, and security architecture. This article examines the impact of geopolitical transformations in the Black Sea and South Caucasus regions on Georgia's regional significance and security environment. Particular attention is given to the changing roles of Russia, Turkey, the European Union, the United States, and China, as well as the development of the Middle Corridor, the Baku–Tbilisi–Kars railway, regional energy infrastructure, and the Black Sea submarine cable project. The article also examines the potential implications of emerging transportation routes through Armenia, including the Crossroads of Peace initiative and the proposed Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP). The study argues that Georgia's established transportation infrastructure, strategic location, accumulated transit experience, and international partnerships provide significant advantages over emerging competing routes. However, increased geopolitical and economic importance does not automatically guarantee improved national security. Instead, it may increase Georgia's exposure to hybrid threats, infrastructure vulnerabilities, political pressure, and competition between external actors. The article concludes that Georgia should strengthen critical infrastructure resilience, diversify international partnerships, modernize transportation networks, and consolidate its role within the Middle Corridor in order to transform its geographical advantage into a sustainable strategic advantage.