President Zourabichvili asserts Georgia’s resolve amid escalating Russian pressure

In a recent interview with France Info, President Salome Zourabichvili of Georgia emphasized the critical importance of the upcoming general election in October as a means to ‘break free from the enduring Georgian nightmare, rather than from the Georgian Dream” authorities. 

Zourabichvili highlighted the mounting pressure from Russia at Georgia’s doorstep, expressing concern over the increasing influence exerted by Moscow. She noted that Georgia finds itself at a pivotal juncture, standing on the threshold of Europe while facing escalating pressure from its northern neighbor.

The President pointed out that this pressure was evident through legislative measures resembling Putin’s crackdown on non-governmental organizations, media outlets, and international bodies – a strategy she likened to a game of chess with European partners. Despite the reintroduction of the foreign transparency bill by the current administration twice within a year, Zourabichvili remained optimistic that the tide would turn come October.

Zourabichvili affirmed Georgia’s unwavering commitment to the European cause, stating that the forthcoming elections will serve as a decisive opportunity to reject anything that deviated from the path toward European integration, freedom, and sovereignty. She asserted that despite Moscow’s efforts to “utilize the government as a tool”, Georgia will stand firm in its pursuit of European values and independence.