Why did Georgia seek an alliance with Russia during the 18th century?

During the 18th century, Georgia sought an alliance with Russia primarily to secure its survival against persistent external threats and internal instability. The kingdom faced frequent, devastating raids by Lezgian mountaineers from Dagestan, as well as ongoing military pressure and territorial ambitions from neighboring powers, including Iran and the Ottoman Empire.1

These compounding difficulties, alongside economic stringency, impelled King Erekle II to adopt a pro-Russian orientation. This shift culminated in the Treaty of Georgievsk, signed on July 24, 1783, with Catherine the Great. Under this agreement, Russia guaranteed Georgia’s territorial integrity and the continuation of the Bagratid dynasty in exchange for Russian suzerainty and control over Georgian foreign affairs. Ultimately, Georgia sought this protection in the hope of preserving its independence and ensuring the corporate survival of the nation against regional adversaries.123