Events on May 7 in history

Treaty of Moscow: Soviet Russia recognizes the independence of the Democratic Republic of Georgia only to invade the country six months later.

The Treaty of Moscow: A Fleeting Recognition of Georgian Independence

In the tumultuous aftermath of World War I and the Russian Civil War, a pivotal, yet ultimately short-lived, agreement was struck between two nascent states: Soviet Russia and the Democratic Republic of Georgia. This accord, officially known as the Treaty of Moscow (Russian: Московский договор, Moskovskiy dogovor; Georgian: მოსკოვის ხელშეკრულება, moskovis khelshekruleba), was signed in the bustling city of Moscow on May 7, 1920. It represented a significant moment for the young Georgian republic, offering what appeared to be a vital step towards international legitimacy.

A World in Flux: The Geopolitical Landscape of 1920

To fully appreciate the significance of the Treaty of Moscow, one must understand the complex geopolitical tapestry of the early 20th century. The Russian Empire had collapsed, giving rise to Bolshevik Russia (the Russian Socialist Federative Soviet Republic, or RSFSR), which was still embroiled in a fierce civil war against various White Russian forces and international interventionists. On its southern flank, Georgia, a nation with a rich history, had declared its independence on May 26, 1918, following the disintegration of the Transcaucasian Democratic Federative Republic. The Democratic Republic of Georgia (DRG) was striving to secure its sovereignty amidst the regional instability, navigating between the ambitions of its powerful Russian neighbor, the fading Ottoman influence, and the sporadic interest of Western European powers.

The Contracting Parties: Soviet Russia and Democratic Georgia

The two signatories represented vastly different political ideologies and aspirations. Soviet Russia, under the leadership of Vladimir Lenin and the Bolsheviks, was consolidating its power and seeking to establish a new world order based on communist principles. Despite its revolutionary zeal, it also sought practical diplomatic recognition and security for its borders, particularly in regions where counter-revolutionary forces might find refuge. On the other side was the Democratic Republic of Georgia, a social-democratic state that had successfully held multi-party elections and was building a parliamentary democracy. It aspired to maintain its newfound independence, which was recognized by several European nations, but crucially, not yet by its colossal northern neighbor.

Key Provisions: Recognition and Strategic Assurance

The core of the Treaty of Moscow revolved around a crucial exchange. For Georgia, the most vital provision was the de jure recognition of its independence and sovereignty by Soviet Russia. This was not merely a symbolic gesture; 'de jure' recognition meant a formal and legal acknowledgment of Georgia as an independent state, a status that was highly sought after by the fledgling republic to solidify its international standing and deter potential aggression. In return for this invaluable recognition, the Democratic Republic of Georgia committed to a specific, strategically important obligation: it promised not to grant asylum on Georgian soil to troops or forces of powers deemed hostile to Bolshevik Russia. This clause was a direct response to Soviet Russia's ongoing civil war, aimed at preventing Georgia from becoming a safe haven or staging ground for anti-Bolshevik elements, such as the remnants of the White Army or other interventionist forces.

Motivations Behind the Accord

Both parties had compelling reasons to sign the treaty, albeit with underlying strategic calculations. For Georgia, securing official recognition from its most powerful neighbor was paramount. It hoped this diplomatic success would cement its independence, open avenues for international trade, and provide a buffer against future Soviet encroachments. The promise regarding asylum was a concession made in pursuit of this vital recognition, reflecting a pragmatic decision to avoid immediate conflict with a militarily superior power. For Soviet Russia, the treaty served several purposes. Firstly, it offered a propaganda victory, demonstrating that even a non-communist state was willing to engage diplomatically. Secondly, and more importantly, it was a strategic move to neutralize Georgia as a potential base for anti-Bolshevik forces during the ongoing civil war, thereby securing its southern flank. Some historians also suggest it was a tactical delay, a way to temporarily stabilize the region before a more decisive intervention could be planned.

A Treaty's Ephemeral Promise: The Aftermath

Despite the initial hope it offered, the Treaty of Moscow proved to be tragically short-lived. Just nine months after its signing, in February 1921, the Red Army invaded Georgia. Citing a variety of pretexts, including alleged uprisings by Bolshevik sympathizers and violations of the treaty, Soviet forces rapidly advanced, overthrowing the Democratic Republic of Georgia. By March 1921, Georgia was incorporated into the Soviet Union as the Georgian Soviet Socialist Republic. Thus, the de jure recognition granted by the treaty ultimately served as a brief interlude before Georgia's reincorporation into the Russian sphere of influence, highlighting the pragmatic and often ruthless nature of early Soviet foreign policy.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Treaty of Moscow (1920)

What was the primary purpose of the Treaty of Moscow?

The primary purpose was for Soviet Russia to grant formal, legal (de jure) recognition of the Democratic Republic of Georgia's independence. In exchange, Georgia committed to preventing its territory from being used by forces hostile to Bolshevik Russia during its civil war.

Who were the main signatories of the treaty?

The treaty was signed between the Russian Socialist Federative Soviet Republic (RSFSR), representing Soviet Russia, and the Democratic Republic of Georgia (DRG).

When and where was the treaty signed?

The Treaty of Moscow was signed on May 7, 1920, in Moscow, the capital of Soviet Russia.

What did "de jure recognition" mean for Georgia?

"De jure recognition" meant that Soviet Russia formally and legally acknowledged Georgia as a sovereign, independent state. This was crucial for Georgia's international standing and its efforts to consolidate its newfound nationhood after the collapse of the Russian Empire.

What was Georgia's main obligation under the treaty?

Georgia's main obligation was to promise not to grant asylum or provide sanctuary on its soil to troops or military forces of powers that were hostile to Bolshevik Russia. This was a direct measure to secure Soviet Russia's southern border during the ongoing Russian Civil War.

How long did the treaty remain in effect?

The Treaty of Moscow was very short-lived. It was effectively abrogated less than a year after its signing when the Red Army invaded and occupied Georgia in February 1921, incorporating it into the Soviet Union.

Why did Soviet Russia offer recognition, only to invade Georgia later?

Historians generally view Soviet Russia's recognition as a strategic, temporary measure. It allowed the Bolsheviks to neutralize a potential front during the civil war and prevented anti-Bolshevik forces from using Georgia as a base. Once the civil war was largely won and Soviet Russia's military position was stronger, the strategic imperative to expand Bolshevik influence into the Caucasus led to the invasion, despite the earlier treaty.