Zviad Shalamberidze, a member of the Georgian Parliament and First Deputy Chairman of the Committee on Regional Policy and Self-Government, has criticized Ukraine’s decision to impose sanctions on him, calling the move both surprising and unjustified.
Shalamberidze, who previously served as the Governor of Georgia’s Imereti region, highlighted his direct involvement in supporting Ukraine during its time of need.
“During the most difficult period for Ukraine, I personally oversaw the collection and delivery of 40 tons of humanitarian aid,” he stated, detailing efforts that included providing essential items such as medicines, food, clothing, and hygiene products. He also coordinated additional shipments, bringing the total aid from Western Georgia to over 50 tons.
In addition to the humanitarian shipments, Shalamberidze emphasized his engagement with Ukrainian citizens in Georgia. He organized events for displaced Ukrainian children in Kutaisi and extended support to approximately 200 Ukrainian families who sought refuge in Imereti after the outbreak of war.
Reacting to the sanctions, Shalamberidze said, “This decision causes mixed emotions—surprise and, to some extent, sarcastic gratitude. It is difficult to understand how someone who worked tirelessly to help the Ukrainian people can now be labeled as a threat to this country.”
He suggested that the sanctions were politically motivated and failed to reflect the values of mutual respect and gratitude. “Despite this decision, Georgia remains a steadfast supporter of freedom, sovereignty, and peace, including for Ukraine,” Shalamberidze concluded.
