Georgia's EU Path Clouded by Diplomatic Friction and Domestic Policy Shifts

Today, November 26, 2025, Georgia found itself at a critical juncture regarding its European Union aspirations, marked by significant diplomatic tensions and a busy domestic policy agenda. In a stark warning, German Ambassador to Georgia, Peter Fischer, indicated that the country's EU expansion file is likely to be closed in December due to recent actions, a development poised to significantly impact Georgia's foreign policy trajectory. This came amidst heightened diplomatic friction, with the U.S. State Department issuing a strong rebuke, labeling Georgian Parliamentary Chairman Shalva Papuashvili's accusations of the U.S. attempting to drag Georgia into war as "fully false."

Domestically, the political and legal landscape remained tense. Proceedings continued for those detained during the October 4 protests, with prominent opposition figure Nika Melia receiving a 1.5-year prison sentence for splashing water on a judge. Other arrestees, including Paata Burchuladze, remain in custody, awaiting substantive review of their cases. These developments underscore ongoing internal political struggles, with further large-scale protests anticipated for November 28.

The government also pressed forward with extensive reforms, particularly in education. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze outlined plans to revise the higher education grant model and increase salaries for full-time professors, potentially exceeding 10,000 GEL. Controversies emerged regarding the potential loss of Erasmus program eligibility for some Georgian students, and reports surfaced of dismissals at the National Center for Assessment and Examinations, allegedly targeting staff involved in protests. Kobakhidze also stated that private schools would retain the 12-year education program, while public schools would offer special classes for students aiming to study abroad.

Legislative activity saw Parliament passing key bills, including an 85 Tetri increase in excise tax on imported cigarettes and the implementation of QR codes and fingerprints on ID cards. The controversial "Eagle Hills" investment project continued to draw attention, with PM Kobakhidze defending it, asserting the state has no financial obligations and expecting approximately 80% Georgian buyers, while simultaneously countering claims that "Arab" or "Russian" cities are being built. In other notable news, Georgian wrestler Zurab Datunashvili was stripped of his Olympic and World Championship medals due to doping evasion, marking a significant setback in the nation's sports achievements.