Georgia Faces Diplomatic Rift, Intensified Protests, and High-Profile SSS Raids
October 19, 2025
Today, October 19, 2025, marked a significant escalation in Georgia's international relations as Germany announced the recall of its Ambassador to Tbilisi, Peter Fischer, for consultations. This decision, communicated via the German Foreign Office, comes after what it described as 'months of attacks' against the ambassador and is widely seen as a culmination of prolonged diplomatic tensions. Former Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili commented on the development, emphasizing that it does not signify Europe turning its back on Georgia, but rather highlights the Georgian government's departure from the will of its people.
Domestically, the day was characterized by continued political unrest and a series of arrests related to ongoing protests. Notably, journalist Vakho Sanaya was reportedly detained for allegedly blocking a road, drawing strong condemnation from media organizations such as Formula and the Media Advocacy Coalition, who labeled it a severe violation of media and speech freedom. In a separate incident, artist Levan Margiani received a six-day administrative detention sentence for a similar charge during an October 18 protest on Rustaveli Avenue. The Ministry of Internal Affairs reported a total of 14 administrative detentions from yesterday's demonstrations, with legal proceedings initiated against 13 individuals, underscoring a perceived tightening of laws against public assembly.
Adding to the domestic political landscape, the State Security Service (SSS) conducted extensive searches at the residences of several former high-ranking officials, including former Prime Minister Irakli Gharibashvili, former SSS head Grigol Liluashvili, and former Chief Prosecutor Otar Partskhaladze. The SSS confirmed the seizure of a substantial amount of assets, totaling over 7 million USD and 136 thousand GEL in cash, alongside jewelry and expensive artworks. This operation has been met with mixed reactions, with some public figures interpreting it as an internal power struggle or 'racketeering' orchestrated by Bidzina Ivanishvili.
In economic news, Finance Minister Lasha Khutsishvili highlighted Georgia's sustainable economic development despite ongoing geopolitical challenges, reporting an average annual economic growth of 9% with inflation close to target. Meanwhile, TBC Capital projected that October's inflation rate would surpass 5%. On the sports front, the Georgian national football team's recent disappointing performances against Spain and Turkey sparked considerable debate regarding team tactics and coaching decisions. However, individual Georgian athletes continued to achieve success, with footballer Otar Kiteishvili earning Man of the Match honors in Austria and MMA fighter Bidzina Gavashelishvili securing a victory in Lithuania. Renowned UFC fighter Merab Dvalishvili also announced his next title defense against Petr Yan in December, aiming to defend his belt four times in a calendar year.