Ukraine must adopt a tougher stance toward Georgia's ruling party – European Pravda editorial
European Pravda has published an editorial representing the collective stance of its entire editorial team, a format reserved for crucial moments when Ukraine faces pivotal decisions on topics extensively covered by the publication.
Georgia will face soon an unprecedented situation with two individuals simultaneously claiming the presidency. This evolving political crisis demands decisive action from Ukraine.
Read more in the European Pravda article – Time for Ukraine's leadership: why Kyiv must urgently change its policy toward Georgia.
The current political crisis in Georgia began with the controversial parliamentary elections in late October 2024. The ruling party, Georgian Dream, was awarded a parliamentary majority by the Central Election Commission, while the opposition unanimously declared the rigged elections.
The international community, including all credible monitoring missions, agreed that the elections were far from democratic, citing numerous violations and signs of vote manipulation.
Subsequently, the Georgian government made a drastic geopolitical shift, halting its EU integration process. This decision, more than the election irregularities, triggered mass protests across the country, met with violent crackdowns by the authorities.
A critical crossroad now approaches in Georgia.
On 14 December, a new president will be elected in Tbilisi, not through a public vote but by an electoral college comprising MPs and regional representatives.
The sole candidate, put forward by the ruling Georgian Dream party, is former footballer Mikheil Kavelaishvili, known for his anti-Western views. The opposition has refused to nominate a candidate, rejecting the legitimacy of both the parliament and the presidential election.
Meanwhile, the current pro-Western president, Salome Zourabichvili, has announced her intention to stay in office beyond her constitutional term, deeming the election of her successor unlawful.
If Georgia ends up with two simultaneous "presidents," how should Ukraine respond?
Avoiding contact altogether? This could imply Ukraine has ceased recognising Zourabichvili and tacitly supports her replacement by the pro-Russian Kavelaishvili.
Engaging with both leaders for balance? This would undermine clarity and credibility in Ukraine's stance.
Relying on an EU consensus is unlikely, as Europe remains divided on Georgia. Ukraine must assert itself as a geopolitical player and regional leader, setting an example in responding to such crises.
Ukraine has every reason to consider itself a geopolitical player. It must set an example, and in the case of Georgia, it is even obligated to do so. The precision with which Ivanishvili’s regime is now replicating Yanukovych’s actions imposes additional moral responsibilities on Ukraine.
Ukraine’s leadership, which has long emphasised the need for the country to transition from being an object to a subject of international politics, must finally act as a regional leader and a player in foreign policy.
In a situation where the people of Georgia are expressing dissent; where the large-scale suppression of protests is evident; where Ukraine has publicly stated that Russia has de facto seized power in Georgia – there are ample grounds to declare non-recognition of the results of the "presidential elections" scheduled for Saturday in Tbilisi. Accordingly, Ukraine should continue to recognise Salome Zourabichvili as Georgia’s president, even after the inauguration of her "successor."
Additionally, Ukraine should, where possible, avoid official contacts with Georgia’s new parliament and government. In this aspect, it is entirely reasonable to maintain ambiguity – the key is not to create the impression that their legitimacy is recognised.
Finally, this effort need not be carried out alone.