Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Wednesday expressed regret over the “absence of international condemnation of the systemic violence on the streets of Tbilisi”, which he deemed a “green light” for further violence.
Speaking at a press conference, following the Government’s move last week to halt the country’s EU accession talks until 2028 that sparked nationwide protests, Kobakhidze emphasized the role of international actors in addressing the violence.
“I would like to express my regret once again that this gross, systemic violence that we are seeing on the streets of Tbilisi has not yet been condemned by relevant actors, primarily international ones,” said Kobakhidze. He further noted that the lack of condemnation by diplomats and politicians from the European Union and the United States contributed to the perpetuation of violence. “Non-condemnation is viewed as a green light for violence, which is very unfortunate,” he added.
Kobakhidze also reiterated the “legitimacy” of Georgia’s recent elections, citing the OSCE/ODIHR and Constitutional Court’s conclusions “affirming their validity”. Despite opposition claims, he underscored that there was “no evidence” of electoral illegitimacy. He linked this to the “ongoing violence”, warning that the passivity of international bodies in condemning these events tarnished their reputations.
In his remarks, the Prime Minister also condemned what he called politicization of schools, calling it “immoral” and a reflection of “liberal fascism.” Kobakhidze argued that such actions undermined the integrity of the education system and further exemplified the negative influence of “liberal fascism” in Georgia.
He also claimed events similar to Ukraine’s Euromaidan in 2013-2014, allegedly influenced by foreign forces with the use of the domestic opposition, had “failed”.
“Everything is under control. The interests of the country will be protected from beginning to end,” he concluded.
The international community, however, has condemned the use of excessive force against demonstrators and media representatives.
