Georgian PM accuses former UNM Gov’t of allowing Russian territorial, economic expansion in Georgia

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Wednesday said that Russia expanded its territorial presence in Georgia during the tenure of the former United National Movement Government, citing the occupation of 20 percent of Georgian territory.

In his interview with Imedi TV, Kobakhidze noted that the former authorities had pursued what he described as a “fully treacherous policy”, while the current Government protects Georgia’s national interests and strategic positions.

“Under the previous Government, the Russian Federation gained significant benefits in Georgia. They acquired major strategic economic assets, including large-scale holdings across various sectors. At one point, virtually all utility services in Tbilisi - water supply, gas, and energy - had been transferred to Russian companies, either directly or indirectly”, the Prime Minister said.

He added that many other strategic assets were also sold to Russian corporations during that period.

Addressing territorial issues, Kobakhidze emphasised that Russia’s gains were not limited to economic influence.

“It was precisely under the previous Government that Russia expanded its territorial presence in Georgia through the occupation of our regions - resulting in 20% of our territory being occupied”, he continued.

The Prime Minister further argued that these developments illustrate two forms of expansion - territorial and political and economic.

According to him, both benefited Russia significantly under the former Government, whereas the current administration has prevented any form of Russian economic or territorial expansion.

“When we talk about who benefited, we must look at the outcomes. The results clearly show that the previous Government’s policy was completely traitorous, while under our leadership, we defend Georgia’s national interests and positions”, Kobakhidze concluded.