Georgian media: UK reportedly training Georgian opposition activists in Lithuania ahead of October local elections

Georgian media outlet Prime Time on Monday published exclusive information alleging that the United Kingdom was preparing Georgian opposition activists for the upcoming local self-government elections scheduled for October 4. According to the outlet, the training sessions are taking place in the Baltic states, with Lithuania serving as a key host country.

Sources told Prime Time that the programs are designed for opponents of Georgia’s ruling authorities. The reported training includes instruction on protest tactics, methods of provocation, documenting “excessive force” by law enforcement, personal protection in case of detention, and the promotion of information campaigns.

Special emphasis is said to be placed on producing so-called viral content and distributing targeted materials via the Telegram messaging platform.

Recruitment for these training sessions is reportedly being carried out under the cover of student exchange programs and cybersecurity courses.

The process is facilitated by two non-governmental organizations - the British-Georgian Society and the International Institute for Strategic Studies. Both organizations are headquartered in London, according to the same source.