Fatal Landslide on Kvesheti-Kobi Road Amidst Ukraine Peace Talks and Domestic Tensions
The day in Georgia was marked by a tragic incident on the Kvesheti-Kobi road construction site, where a landslide near the village of Tskere resulted in the deaths of four construction workers and the hospitalization of another. The deceased and injured included Turkmen and Chinese nationals. The Roads Department has launched an investigation into the incident and called for strict adherence to safety regulations by the contractor company.
Internationally, discussions regarding a potential peace plan for Ukraine continued in Geneva. A 28-point US peace proposal was a central topic, drawing varied reactions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed that initial meetings indicated the US might consider Kyiv's significant remarks, while former US President Donald Trump criticized Ukrainian leadership for a perceived lack of gratitude. Georgian Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili noted a shift in European leaders' positions, now requiring Europe's consent for any peace agreement, alongside Ukraine's. Concerns were also raised regarding proposals that might involve changes to Ukraine's borders by force or reductions in its military, as discussed by figures like Marco Rubio.
Domestically, the political landscape saw ongoing activities, including protests near the Parliament. At least one journalist, Giorgi Mamniashvili, and activist Ia Melitauri were reportedly detained during these demonstrations. Allegations of mistreatment, including forced undressing and squats, were made by Mamniashvili's lawyer. In other government news, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze is scheduled to meet Pope Leo XIV in the Vatican, and President Mikheil Kavelashvili issued pardons for 49 individuals in observance of Giorgoba (St. George's Day).
Economically, several reports highlighted trends such as a record high in frozen fish imports and the controversial forced acquisition of land in Tskaltubo Municipality. Debates continued on the real estate market, with many buyers reportedly preferring older buildings over new constructions, and discussions arose about high living costs attributed to imported goods. Culturally, the discovery of previously unknown manuscripts by the renowned Georgian poet Galaktion Tabidze captured public interest.
Georgian athletes also made headlines with notable achievements. In mixed martial arts, Aleksandre Topuria secured a decisive victory by unanimous decision at UFC Qatar, marking his second win in the promotion. Another fighter, Arman Tsarukyan, also achieved a win and called for a title fight against his cousin Ilia Topuria. In basketball, Georgian players Sandro Mamukelashvili and Goga Bitadze delivered strong performances in the NBA. However, the Georgian national rugby team experienced a narrow 23-25 defeat against Japan, following recent victories over the US and Canada.