George proceeded to campaign against the easternmost Georgian Principality of Kakheti whose ruler Kvirike II also pretended on parts of Kartli.

George and Leon were supported by his brother-in-law prince Shurta, who was also natural brother of Kvirike, who ceded Ujarma fortress to Abkhazians.

Kvirike was forced to agree to the marriage of his son David, with the daughter of Leon.

Leon attacked Kakheti again and sacked Mukhnari, Kherki and Bazaleti; In this last place he became ill and died in 967.

In 964 Leon III extended his influence to Javakheti, during his reign was built Kumurdo Cathedral.