Georgia playing ‘lifeline’ role for Russia, opposition figure

Georgian opposition politician Roman Gotsiridze on Friday criticised the country’s role in the regional economy, alleging that Georgia was helping sustain Russia amid ongoing international sanctions for invading Ukraine. 

In his comments, Gotsiridze claimed that Turkey, with support from several neighbouring countries, has “dragged Georgia” into efforts to prop up Russia’s economy.

“Georgia’s path is the path of life for Russia,” he said, accusing the Georgian banking system of contributing to the efficiency of Russian financial operations. He argued that transactions supporting Russia were being routed through Georgia, aided by partnerships involving Turkey, Arab states, Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Central Asian countries.

Gotsiridze also warned that Georgia could face serious international consequences for its perceived role. He pointed to potential measures such as the suspension of visa liberalisation and free trade agreements with the European Union. More targeted or "sectoral sanctions" could follow, he said, naming specific Georgian banks - Liberty Bank and Cartu Bank - as well as industries allegedly linked to key government allies, including cement production.

Addressing criticism that sanctions have failed to weaken Russia, Gotsiridze rejected the notion. “Without sanctions, the Russian army would be in Warsaw,” he said, highlighting the freezing of $300 billion in Russian assets as a major blow to the Kremlin's war efforts. He argued that access to such funds would allow Russia to further escalate its military campaign in Ukraine, potentially resulting in tens of thousands of additional deaths.

“These sanctions are destroying Russia’s military and financial potential,” Gotsiridze claimed, adding that their impact was only limited by the willingness of Europe and the wider world to bear their economic cost.