Russia, Georgia: Border crossing delays affect freight trucks at Upper Lars crossing as of early Aug. 10

Significant delays have been reported for freight truck crossings from Russia to Georgia at the Upper Lars border crossing as of early Aug. 10. Local officials have variously attributed the delays to a technical issue and a seasonal increase in traffic. As of early Aug. 10, the crossing queue stood at over 5,000 trucks; however, the checkpoint is reportedly only capable of processing 150 trucks per day. Potentially exacerbating the situation, officials reported that the crossing was closed as of early Aug. 10; it was not immediately clear when the crossing would reopen or why it was closed.

Multiday delays for trucks traveling from Russia to Georgia via the Upper Lars crossing are likely through mid-August. Significant passenger vehicle delays may also be periodically reported at the border crossing.