Georgian PM asserts Russia lacks capacity to influence upcoming elections

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Friday raised concerns about what he described as “unprecedented external interference” in the upcoming parliamentary elections scheduled for October 26, also claiming “Russia lacks the capacity to significantly influence” the vote.

Kobakhidze claimed his government was facing threats and blackmail, which he attributed to its decision to “avoid escalating the ongoing conflict in Ukraine by not opening a second front in Georgia”. He expressed regret that this year’s elections were “overshadowed by perceived external interference”.

“The threats and blackmail we are encountering stem from our refusal to open a second front in the country. Certain groups are dissatisfied with this stance and hope to regain their influence and open a second front after the elections, which will not happen,” Kobakhidze said. He emphasized that the Georgian public would not support the return of the former United National Movement Government, which he accused of leading a “bloody regime.”

Kobakhidze also underscored the role of the State Security Service in ensuring “peace and security” within the country.