PM Kobakhidze's Appearance with Putin Draws Criticism Amidst EU Sanctions and Domestic Developments
The political landscape in Georgia was dominated today by the controversy surrounding Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze's presence at the Ashgabat forum alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Prime Minister dismissed criticisms of a shared photograph as "absolutely unserious speculations." However, the incident sparked immediate domestic backlash, with President Salome Zurabishvili stating that Kobakhidze's presence next to Putin, and remaining in the hall during his speech, represented a "red line" beyond which Georgia risks becoming "Russia's slave." These developments coincided with ongoing protests near the Georgian Parliament, where activists Achi Gochitashvili and Nodar Chachanidze were reportedly detained.
On the international front, the European Union made a significant decision to indefinitely freeze Russian central bank assets, eliminating the need for periodic renewals and effectively circumventing potential vetoes from member states like Hungary and Slovakia. This move by the EU signals a sustained pressure on Russia, a development closely watched in Tbilisi.
Economically, substantial investments were announced, with electricity providers Telasi and Energo Pro Georgia committing nearly 2 billion GEL over the next five years to improve power supply across Georgia. Additionally, a contract was signed for the construction of another section of the strategic Tusheti road, and active work on the Tbilisi bypass road is slated to commence in 2026. However, mixed economic signals were also reported, with Georgian dried fruit exports seeing a 50% decline, while used car imports from Georgia to Russia surged by 227%.
In other domestic news, a new legislative change addresses the frequent cases of overpaid pensions, legalizing those issued before November 1, 2025, and absolving recipients from repayment. Meanwhile, a proposed unified information database for individuals with mental health issues, alcoholism, or drug addiction drew criticism from social workers, who argued against using mental health as a tool for punishment or submission. Tragic local incidents included a student stabbing a peer in a Marneuli school, and the detention of well-known designer Datuna Sulikashvili on drug-related charges. Local municipalities also saw activity, with Kutaisi announcing a new compulsory drug treatment center and Batumi planning significant road infrastructure improvements.
Georgian sports also celebrated achievements, with legendary chess player Nona Gaprindashvili officially recognized by Guinness World Records for her unique accomplishment in 1978. Young Georgian footballer Dachi Lortkipanidze made his Serie A debut, and MMA fighter Giga Chikadze announced plans to open a new academy, further highlighting Georgian talent on the global stage.