Georgia Grapples with Political Unrest, Geopolitical Tensions, and Mixed Economic Fortunes
October 26, 2025
Today, October 26, 2025, Georgia experienced a turbulent mix of political developments, geopolitical concerns, and mixed economic signals. The domestic political scene was largely dominated by continued reports of protests and the detention of activists and journalists. Over the past three days, at least 60 individuals were reportedly detained for violating assembly rules, with prominent figures like journalist Vasil Ivanov-Chikovan and his spouse Maiko Bokeria, as well as activist Mzia Amaglobeli, among those arrested. The European Parliament Vice-President issued an appeal for Amaglobeli's release. Furthermore, the ruling party, "Georgian Dream," was accused of planning to ban opposition parties, drawing criticism from figures such as Tina Bokuchava who dramatically claimed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs "officially no longer exists." The Speaker of Parliament, Shalva Papuashvili, stated that the government is confronting "internal destructive forces" and "external globalist forces," while inmates in Gldani prison, including Giorgi Chikvaidze, reportedly began a hunger strike.
The country's geopolitical landscape remained a key focus, with international statements and allegations surfacing. American singer Katie Perry expressed solidarity, stating, "We stand with Georgia!" However, concerns about Russian influence persisted, notably with Russian independent media linking the son of Georgian businesswoman Maka Asatiani to Russian military intelligence. A Qulevi oil refinery was also implicated with ties to a high-ranking GRU official. In wider international news, Dmitry Peskov commented on the EU's "war hysteria" and the impact of US sanctions on Russia, while Vladimir Putin announced a successful test of a nuclear-powered cruise missile. Reports also detailed ongoing Russian drone attacks on Kyiv, resulting in casualties.
Economically, the day presented a mixed picture. Tourism revenue showed growth, reaching GEL 3.637 billion in the first nine months of 2025, with Russian visitors being the top spenders. However, ordinary citizens faced challenges, including a reported 10% decrease in Tbilisi apartment rental prices and an increase in bread prices. Experts like Kote Gabrichidze pointed to a lack of competition and market monopolies as contributing factors to price hikes. Significant funds, nearly GEL 319.3 million, were collected from sanctions and fines, predominantly from administrative violations. In local news, Batumi was recognized as a top European tourist destination, and its municipality announced plans to construct a kindergarten worth GEL 6.6 million. Chiatura Municipality addressed "dirty speculation" regarding a map performance by schoolchildren, asserting it aimed to remind the public of the struggle for territorial integrity.
Socially and in terms of crime, a tragic highlight was the ongoing investigation into the murder of young teacher Giga Avaliani in Tbilisi, with another minor suspect (born 2007) being detained. The mother of the victim made emotional public statements. Police also reported multiple arrests related to drug trafficking, including the discovery of a clandestine laboratory in Mtskheta and the detention of a 16-year-old for marijuana sales. Internationally, two suspects were arrested in connection with the Louvre museum robbery, one attempting to flee to Algeria. In sports, Georgian athletes continued to make headlines, with Giorgi Mamardashvili's performance for Liverpool attracting debate among fans after a series of losses, and Georges Mikautadze contributing to Villarreal's victory. Georgian MMA fighters Guram Kutateladze secured a debut win in ACA, and discussions continued about a potential UFC event in Georgia featuring Merab Dvalishvili.