Georgian top cleric accuses MEPs of “occupying” Georgia’s future

Georgian bishop Iakob on Monday accused “several MEPs” of “occupying” the country’s future by their statements allegedly against the Georgian government and in support of imprisoned former president Mikheil Saakashvili, ahead of the European Council decision to grant Georgia the European Union membership candidate status. 

The cleric also commented on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and noted “this unjust war will end. It is a world war no matter what they say now”, adding without weapons it would be difficult for Ukraine to defeat Russia soon. 

He highlighted the end of the war would not change the world for the better, pointing to MEPs in the European Parliament. 

“If the Russians occupied 20 percent of the Georgian territory, the MEPs are taking action to occupy the country’s  future”, he said. 

The cleric also slammed Saakashvili for his actions while in custody and noted “when he wishes he is Ukrainian, and when he wishes he is a president of Georgia”. 

“A heroic man is a hero in the nation, a hero in battle and a hero in prison”, said the cleric. 

Saakashvili, the third president of Georgia, who was arrested in Tbilisi in October 2021, is demanding his transfer abroad for “proper treatment”. 

Currently he holds Ukrainian citizenship.