About
Vladislav Ardzinba was an Abkhaz historian and politician who served as the first de facto president of Abkhazia. He led Abkhazia to de facto independence in the 1992–1993 War with Georgia. During his two terms as president from 1994 to 2005, Abkhazia's de jure independence from Georgia remained internationally unrecognized. His government was implicated in the ethnic cleansing of Georgian civilians in Abkhazia in 1993.
Career Timeline
Leads Abkhaz Independence
Leads Abkhazia's fight for independence from Georgia.
De Facto President
Becomes de facto President of Abkhazia, governing the region.
Accusations of Ethnic Cleansing
His government is implicated in the ethnic cleansing of Georgian civilians.
End of Presidency
Steps down as President, influence diminishes.
Death in Moscow
Dies in Moscow, legacy marked by controversy.
Controversial Legacy
Remembered for his role in Abkhazia's independence, but also for accusations of human rights abuses.
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Last updated: February 25, 2026