Georgian Speaker accuses Western powers of readiness to use force over EU dispute

Georgian Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili has sharply criticized certain Western actors, claiming they would be willing to use military force under the guise of restoring democracy in Georgia if given the chance.

Speaking to journalists, Papuashvili stated that some forces in the West—particularly in Eastern Europe—might not hesitate to "enter Georgia with tanks" if the opportunity arose. His comments come amid escalating tensions between Tbilisi and its Western partners following Georgia’s decision to suspend progress on European Union membership talks, Caliber.Az reports, citing Georgian media.

"If someone abroad had the opportunity, they might have entered Georgia with tanks in order to restore democracy," Papuashvili said. "From what I observe, some people, especially in Eastern European countries, hold positions that could allow them to resort to tanks, and common sense wouldn’t stop them from doing it."

The Georgian government announced on November 28, 2024, that it would postpone EU membership talks until 2028, sparking a wave of criticism from Brussels and key EU capitals. Western leaders accused Tbilisi of democratic regression and urged the immediate repeal of laws deemed incompatible with European standards.

Papuashvili pushed back against what he described as aggressive and coercive rhetoric from abroad, suggesting that external actors have shifted tactics—from military intervention to economic pressure and sanctions.

"In the past, enemies entered Georgia with tanks and weapons. Today, they use sanctions," the Speaker said.

For the record, Georgia was granted EU candidate status in 2023, but relations have become strained over issues including judicial reform, media freedom, and controversial legislation that Brussels says undermines democratic governance.

By Khagan Isayev