On March 16, 2023, the de facto President of the Russian-occupied Tskhinvali region, Alan Gagloyev, met with the Russian President, Vladimir Putin. This was his first meeting with Putin as a president-elected in 2022. The meeting was planned in February; however, the day before the meeting, Gagloyev was tested positive for coronavirus and the meeting was postponed. Gagloyev was often criticized by his opponents for taking so long to meet with the Russian leader.

According to Putin:

• The relations between Russia and “South Ossetia” is of a special nature.
• Our relations are developing in all directions, including the economic sphere.
• The turnover increased by 12% in 2022.
• All programs are being developed: investment program, socio-economic development program, financial aid program, “South Ossetia” aid and support credit program.
• A Russian military base located in “South Ossetia,” as well as close relations between the relevant structures ensure the security in the region.

According to Gagloyev:

• We remember that in the most difficult period you were always by our side, supported and provided invaluable assistance to “South Ossetia.” We also remember August 2008, when the people of “South Ossetia” were under the threat of almost complete extermination; however, thanks to the exceptionally correct and timely decision, we stopped the aggressor.
• “South Ossetia” supports the special military operation (Russia's military aggression in Ukraine).
• “South Ossetia” should show the whole world that being with Russia is the only right choice.
• In the current geopolitical situation, the de facto republic should coordinate its activities with Russia more than ever.
• Gagloyev thanked Putin for his support in the implementation of the gasification project for the entire region (to date, only Tskhinvali city and nearby settlements are gasified and gas is supplied to the Tskhinvali region only from Russia, through a pipeline).
• Gagloyev invited Putin to Tskhinvali for a ceremonial event related to the 15th anniversary of the recognition of the independence of the Republic of “South Ossetia.”