Gov’t left country without strategic partners amid regional tensions, UNM’s Tsitlidze

Anna Tsitlidze, one of the leaders of the United National Movement, on Thursday said the ongoing developments in the region posed significant security challenges for Georgia, criticizing the government for failing to prioritize the country’s security.

The opposition leader claimed when national security was at stake, the country’s defense minister should bear the greatest responsibility. 

However, she questioned whether the current government would even convene the National Security Council or take meaningful steps in response to the situation.

“The developments taking place in the region represent a security challenge for Georgia. Iran is currently governed by a regime that has violently suppressed its own population. At the same time, we have a government that has left the country without its strategic partners,” Tsitlidze said.

She stressed that for a small country like Georgia, ensuring security largely depended on cooperation with international partners, particularly given the country’s proximity to Russia.

Tsitlidze also argued that Georgia should clearly align itself with democratic forces on the global stage, adding that the Iranian regime posed a broader threat, particularly in light of discussions surrounding nuclear weapons.

The opposition politician further criticized the current state of Georgia’s security institutions. She noted that a former defense minister was currently in prison on corruption charges, while the former head of the State Security Service was also behind bars.

“In such circumstances, it is difficult to expect that Georgia’s security will truly be a priority for the current authorities,” Tsitlidze said.