Georgia cannot be directed by external actors, Mayor Kaladze

Kakha Kaladze, the mayor of Tbilisi, on Tuesday claimed that Georgia is governed by a patriotic government elected by the majority of its population and cannot be controlled by external actors. 

His comments followed a statement from the European Commission spokesperson regarding the removal of Kulevi Port from the EU’s 20th sanctions package against Russia.

Kaladze said that, in recent years, Georgia has faced repeated threats and pressures from external actors, which he described as unfounded and lacking factual basis.

“No facts exist to justify these statements. This is one of the mechanisms used against our country. Our country has been under threats and blackmail for years. Resolutions and statements on sanctions are issued without any concrete evidence. Decisions are made externally to pressure us,” Kaladze said.

He added that foreign commentary on Georgia should be based on specific facts rather than perceptions, stressing that Georgians themselves “must safeguard” the country’s sovereignty and independence.

“Everyone has their own interests regarding Georgia, but no foreigner will defend the interests of the Georgian people. We must protect our country and respect its independence and sovereignty. Only then will respect come from outside,” Kaladze said, calling for policies that defend Georgia’s national interests and future.