Ivan Volynkin, who may replace Grigory Karasin, is persona non grata in Georgia

Ivan Volynkin, who may replace Russia's deputy foreign minister Grigory Karasin, is persona non grata in Georgia.

Volinkin was expelled from Georgia along with two other Russian diplomats in 2007 by the then Georgian authorities in connection with the so-called “espionage case” launched against several opposition leaders.

According to Russian media, Grigory Karasin is stepping down and several candidates, including Ivan Volinkin, are being considered for the position.