Georgian PM: loss of cheap Russian energy has created serious economic challenges for Europe

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has said Europe is facing significant economic challenges after losing access to relatively cheap Russian energy resources, arguing that this has affected the continent’s energy sector and wider economy.

Speaking to journalists on Friday, Kobakhidze said weakening Europe’s economy and democratic institutions was among the objectives of unnamed forces that, he claimed, wield decisive influence over the European bureaucracy.

“After Europe lost access to relatively cheap Russian energy resources, serious challenges emerged in the energy sector and the economy as a whole,” he said.

Kobakhidze also claimed that democratic systems across Europe were facing “serious problems”, pointing to the “low approval ratings” of several European leaders.

He expressed hope that Europe would find the strength to reverse “a process of weakening”.