Sanctioned Russian propagandist’s presence in Tbilisi on election day sparks security concerns

Alexander Malkevich, a Russian propagandist sanctioned by the US, EU, Canada, and other countries, was present in Tbilisi on Georgia’s election day, raising alarm among security experts. Cybersecurity expert Andro Gotsiridze expressed deep concern over Malkevich’s accreditation by Georgian authorities, noting that he is a close associate of Yevgeny Prigozhin and has played a central role in Russia’s disinformation and election interference strategies.

“This is a deeply troubling development, worsened by the fact that a government body granted accreditation to an individual actively sought by our strategic partners, with a substantial monetary reward for information on him,” Gotsiridze stated. He emphasized that such accreditation should undergo rigorous security screening, particularly for individuals flagged by allied nations.

Malkevich, known as a key Kremlin figure in digital propaganda and interference operations, is wanted by the United States, which has set a $10 million reward for information leading to his apprehension. Gotsiridze criticized Georgian authorities for failing to recognize the threat posed by Malkevich, suggesting a misalignment in national security priorities.

“Malkevich is no ordinary Russian visitor but a Kremlin operative. Our state sees no threat in him but perceives risks from allies like the US, the UK, NATO, and the EU at an official level,” Gotsiridze added, indicating a potential shift in Georgia’s security orientation that could undermine its Western alliances.