Opposition UNM reports detention of Levan Varshalomidze

Levan Varshalomidze, a member of the United National Movement (UNM) opposition and former head of the Adjara government, has been detained in Kazakhstan, according to the party.

UNM leader Levan Bezhashvili told the media that Varshalomidze was arrested while crossing the border at the airport. He claimed that the detention was linked to a request from the Russian Federation regarding a criminal case related to Varshalomidze’s political consulting activities with the Ukrainian government.

Bezhashvili dismissed Russia’s legal actions as baseless and warned of a potential extradition. “There is a risk of extradition, so we are using all available resources to ensure proper communication with both Ukrainian and Kazakh authorities,” he said.

He stressed the party is pushing for diplomatic efforts to prevent what they call an “unlawful detention” and ensure Kazakhstan makes a decision that aligns with the best interests of both Georgia and Kazakhstan.