Georgian PM Condemns Opposition’s ‘Russophobic’ Rhetoric, Accuses It of Double Standards

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has criticised what he described as “Russophobic” rhetoric by opposition figures, accusing them of applying double standards and calling their actions “another act of betrayal.”

Speaking to journalists, Kobakhidze was responding to a question about Russophobia and a briefing held by leaders of the United National Movement near the Lars border crossing with Russia.

“We have already spoken about these double standards and even held a special briefing on the issue. Their position was very different after 2008, immediately after the war, when more than 400 people were killed and over 30,000 were displaced. At that time, they did not take such a hard line toward Russia or Russians. Now they have adopted a tough and explicitly Russophobic position, which they openly acknowledge,” Kobakhidze said.

“For us, both these double standards and their Russophobic statements and messages are categorically unacceptable. When we first expressed our position on Russophobia, they initially tried to defend themselves by saying they were not Russophobes. Yet within a few days, they reversed that message, received new instructions and openly declared themselves Russophobes. This shows their true face.

“This is yet another act of betrayal and another manifestation of their treacherous nature,” Kobakhidze said.