Speaker Papuashvili slams ‘pro-Russian’ labels, accuses Brussels of political propaganda

Georgia’s parliamentary speaker Shalva Papuashvili has criticised what he described as the routine use of “pro-Russian” labels in European political discourse, accusing Brussels of employing propaganda tactics against political opponents.

Speaking about recent elections in Bulgaria, Papuashvili said that politicians who disagree with Brussels on individual issues are often unfairly branded as pro-Russian, a pattern he said has also been applied to other leaders and parties in Europe.

He argued that such accusations are used as a political tool rather than reflecting genuine policy positions, claiming that this approach was designed to undermine opponents.

His comments came as he discussed the political situation in Bulgaria following recent elections, where he stressed the importance of forming a stable government with a parliamentary majority.

Papuashvili also reiterated Georgia’s interest in stable governments across the region, particularly in Black Sea states, describing Bulgaria as an important partner for Tbilisi.

He said regional stability and predictable governance remained key priorities for Georgia’s foreign relations.