Talk Georgia

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREGeorgia’s Democratic Breakdown: How Did Europe Miss the Warning Signs?Giorgi Rukhadze sits down with Agnieszka Filipiak, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of Forbes Women Poland, to discuss Georgia’s democratic breakdown, repression through law, Europe’s missed warning signs, the limits of the Russia-versus-West lens, the EU’s growing focus on Armenia, and why Georgia is not lost.In this episode:* Georgia after two decades of political change* How repression works through the law* Did Europe miss Georgia’s democratic warning signs?* Beyond the Russia-versus-West binary* Poland–Georgia relations: Does Georgia still matter strategically?* Why Europe is turning its attention to Armenia* Business, politics and the Trump Tower project in Georgia* What Europe still misunderstands about Georgia* Why Georgia should not be written off#TalkGeorgia #Georgia #GeorgianPolitics #GeorgiaEU #EuropeanUnion #Democracy #SouthCaucasus #Russia #Poland #Geopolitics #DemocraticBacksliding #RuleOfLaw #EuropeanPolitics #GeorgiaPolitics #EUIntegration #EasternEurope #AgnieszkaFilipiak #GiorgiRukhadze

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREThis is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.Top Question of the week from AnnaPM Kobakhidze addressed the UN without mentioning Georgia’s EU aspirations, let alone NATO, while Papuashvili, during his visit to Brussels, accused the EU of funding fascists and hate speech in Georgia and mocked its ambassador. Is this a final break with the EU, or another political manoeuvre?these developments connected? What is Ivanishvili trying to achieve?Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Talk Georgia brings you weekly news updates on the key political and regional developments in Georgia. New episodes drop every Saturday at 22:00. Don’t miss out!

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREThis is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.Top Question of the week from AnnaPM Kobakhidze addressed the UN without mentioning Georgia’s EU aspirations, let alone NATO, while Papuashvili, during his visit to Brussels, accused the EU of funding fascists and hate speech in Georgia and mocked its ambassador. Is this a final break with the EU, or another political manoeuvre?these developments connected? What is Ivanishvili trying to achieve?Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREIs Georgian Dream “De-forming” Education to Take Full Political Control?In this episode of Talk Georgia, Giorgi Rukhadze sits down with Gota Chanturia, education policy specialist, civic activist and founding member of the Movement for Social Democracy, for a wide-ranging conversation about education, protest and Georgia’s emerging political alternatives.#TalkGeorgia #Georgia #GeorgianPolitics #GotaChanturia #GeorgianDream #Education #GeorgiaProtests #MovementForSocialDemoracy

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREIs Georgian Dream “De-forming” Education to Take Full Political Control?In this episode of Talk Georgia, Giorgi Rukhadze sits down with Gota Chanturia, education policy specialist, civic activist and founding member of the Movement for Social Democracy, for a wide-ranging conversation about education, protest and Georgia’s emerging political alternatives.

#TalkGeorgia #Georgia #GeorgianPolitics #GotaChanturia #GeorgianDream #Education #GeorgiaProtests #MovementForSocialDemoracy

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREThis is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.Top Question of the week from RichardLiluashvili jailed for 13 years, Geladze demoted, the Finance Ministry reshuffled, and Gakharia’s party set to be added to the ban list. Are these developments connected? What is Ivanishvili trying to achieve?Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Talk Georgia brings you weekly news updates on the key political and regional developments in Georgia. New episodes drop every Saturday at 22:00. Don’t miss out!

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREThis is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.Top Question of the week from RichardLiluashvili jailed for 13 years, Geladze demoted, the Finance Ministry reshuffled, and Gakharia’s party set to be added to the ban list.  Are these developments connected? What is Ivanishvili trying to achieve?Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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Are cracks emerging inside Georgian Dream - and could changes at home and abroad alter Georgia’s political trajectory?

In this episode of Talk Georgia, Giorgi Rukhadze sits down with Petre Tsiskarishvili, Acting Secretary General of the United National Movement (UNM), former Minister of Agriculture and former parliamentary majority leader, to discuss the UNM, Georgian Dream, Bidzina Ivanishvili and the geopolitical developments shaping Georgia’s future.

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHARE

Are cracks emerging inside Georgian Dream - and could changes at home and abroad alter Georgia’s political trajectory?

In this episode of Talk Georgia, Giorgi Rukhadze sits down with Petre Tsiskarishvili, Acting Secretary General of the United National Movement (UNM), former Minister of Agriculture and former parliamentary majority leader, to discuss the UNM, Georgian Dream, Bidzina Ivanishvili and the geopolitical developments shaping Georgia’s future.

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREThis is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.Top Question of the week from NinaAbkhazia; its former Prosecutor General is now fighting for Russia in Ukraine and even plans to form an entire battalion of Georgian fighters; while in Georgia, authorities are opening cases over people swearing at Kremlin propagandists Simonyan and Solovyov. Is the Georgian Dream–Russia love story entering a new phase?Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Talk Georgia brings you weekly news updates on the key political and regional developments in Georgia. New episodes drop every Saturday at 22:00. Don’t miss out!

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREThis is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.Top Question of the week from NinaAbkhazia; its former Prosecutor General is now fighting for Russia in Ukraine and even plans to form an entire battalion of Georgian fighters; while in Georgia, authorities are opening cases over people swearing at Kremlin propagandists Simonyan and Solovyov. Is the Georgian Dream–Russia love story entering a new phase?Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREIn this episode of Talk Georgia, Giorgi Rukhadze sits down with Dr. Zurab Guruli, MD, PhD - Professor at the University of Mississippi - to discuss Georgia’s political trajectory, its relationship with the United States, and the rapidly changing international environment.

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREIn this episode of Talk Georgia, Giorgi Rukhadze sits down with Dr. Zurab Guruli, MD, PhD - Professor at the University of Mississippi - to discuss Georgia’s political trajectory, its relationship with the United States, and the rapidly changing international environment.

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREThis is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.Top Question of the week from KatieMr Garibashvili was already in prison, wasn’t he? Seemingly prepared to spend the next five years there — so who or what exactly was he threatening? Now he turns out to be a “French deep state” agent. And what about Kobakhidze’s main ally, Mdinaradze, and his sudden change of plans and resignation? How are these two events connected, and can you explain what’s really happening?Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREThis is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.Top Question of the week from KatieMr Garibashvili was already in prison, wasn’t he? Seemingly prepared to spend the next five years there — so who or what exactly was he threatening? Now he turns out to be a “French deep state” agent. And what about Kobakhidze’s main ally, Mdinaradze, and his sudden change of plans and resignation? How are these two events connected, and can you explain what’s really happening?Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Talk Georgia brings you weekly news updates on the key political and regional developments in Georgia. New episodes drop every Saturday at 22:00. Don’t miss out!

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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his is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Questions of the week:

Has Mamuka Mdinaradze been promoted, demoted, or is being prepared for prison? Could this reshuffle be linked to Ivanishvili’s possible dissatisfaction with the performance of the so-called “Hate Speech” Department? And could the creation of this new “morality police” be part of the same process?

Shalva Papuashvili has now openly suggested that Georgia might actually be better off outside the European Union. Do you think this is simply another attempt to please Ivanishvili, or is Georgian Dream now openly preparing the public to abandon the country’s EU membership path?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Talk Georgia brings you weekly news updates on the key political and regional developments in Georgia. New episodes drop every Saturday at 22:00. Don’t miss out!

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

PLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHARET

his is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Questions of the week:

Has Mamuka Mdinaradze been promoted, demoted, or is being prepared for prison? Could this reshuffle be linked to Ivanishvili’s possible dissatisfaction with the performance of the so-called “Hate Speech” Department? And could the creation of this new “morality police” be part of the same process?

Shalva Papuashvili has now openly suggested that Georgia might actually be better off outside the European Union. Do you think this is simply another attempt to please Ivanishvili, or is Georgian Dream now openly preparing the public to abandon the country’s EU membership path?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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Guest: Giorgi Burjanadze

Former Deputy Public Defender of Georgia • Constitutional Law & Human Rights Expert • Associate Professor at Free University • Legal Adviser at the Civil Society Foundation.

01:36 Introducing the guest.

03:37 The arrests over protest banners and the imprisonment of journalists and activists, the attack on comedian Onise Okriashvili and the emergence of so-called "morality police".

16:00 The most significant international resolutions and what they actually mean for Georgia

24:02 The EU's first sanctions on Georgia-based companies and what could come next

31:11 Shalva Papuashvili's increasingly anti-EU rhetoric and whether Georgian Dream is preparing the public to abandon the country's European integration.

40:10 The most important pending cases before the European Court of Human Rights

44:55 Final message from Giorgi Burjanadze

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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Guest: Giorgi Burjanadze Former Deputy Public Defender of Georgia • Constitutional Law & Human Rights Expert • Associate Professor at Free University • Legal Adviser at the Civil Society Foundation.

We discuss:

• The arrests over protest banners and the imprisonment of journalists and activists

• The attack on comedian Onise Okriashvili and the emergence of so-called "morality police"

• The most significant international resolutions and what they actually mean for Georgia

• The EU's unprecedented sanctions on Georgia-based companies and what could come next

• The most important pending cases before the European Court of Human Rights

• Shalva Papuashvili's increasingly anti-EU rhetoric and whether Georgian Dream is preparing the public to abandon the country's European integration.

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREThis is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.Top Questions of the week: MariaJournalists are being jailed over Facebook posts, while comedians are assaulted in the streets for their humour. Is this simply madness, or are we witnessing the emergence of a new form of authoritarianism called Bidzinocracy, or even a return to the lawlessness and the chaos of the dark 90s?SergeyFor the first time, Georgian companies have been included in an EU sanctions package. Could this mark the beginning of broader economic measures, with Georgian banks or other major businesses potentially targeted next? What impact could such sanctions have on Georgia's financial sector, and the economy as a whole?Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Talk Georgia brings you weekly news updates on the key political and regional developments in Georgia. New episodes drop every Saturday at 22:00. Don’t miss out!

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

PLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHARET

his is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Questions of the week:

Journalists are being jailed over Facebook posts, while comedians are assaulted in the streets for their humour. Is this simply madness, or are we witnessing the emergence of a new form of authoritarianism called Bidzinocracy, or even a return to the lawlessness and the chaos of the dark 90s?

For the first time, Georgian companies have been included in an EU sanctions package. Could this mark the beginning of broader economic measures, with Georgian banks or other major businesses potentially targeted next? What impact could such sanctions have on Georgia's financial sector, and the economy as a whole?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

PLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHARE

Guest: Nino Dolidze — Democracy and Electoral Integrity Expert, former Executive Director of ISFED, McCain Global Leader, and recipient of the Madeline Albright Democracy Award.

01:00 Introducing the Guest

04:00 Where Is Georgia Today? A Flawed Democracy or an Authoritarian State?

07:00 Can Elections Still Change Power in Georgia?15:15 Georgian Civil Society Under Pressure: How Serious Is the Situation?

19:26 Russian Disinformation and Georgian Dream's Anti-Western Propaganda: How Do They Reinforce Each Other?

28:02 Georgia's International Isolation: Is the Country Drifting Toward Becoming a Russian Satellite, or Can It Rebuild Trust with the West?

38:27 Ivanishvili Has Consolidated Power and Captured the State. What Gives Nino Dolidze Hope?

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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Guest: Nino Dolidze — Democracy and Electoral Integrity Expert, former Executive Director of ISFED, McCain Global Leader, and recipient of the Madeline Albright Democracy Award.

01:00 Introducing the Guest

04:00 Where Is Georgia Today? A Flawed Democracy or an Authoritarian State?

07:00 Can Elections Still Change Power in Georgia?15:15 Georgian Civil Society Under Pressure: How Serious Is the Situation?

19:26 Russian Disinformation and Georgian Dream's Anti-Western Propaganda: How Do They Reinforce Each Other?

28:02 Georgia's International Isolation: Is the Country Drifting Toward Becoming a Russian Satellite, or Can It Rebuild Trust with the West?

38:27 Ivanishvili Has Consolidated Power and Captured the State. What Gives Nino Dolidze Hope?

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Questions of the week:

GD calls OSCE, EU, and US agents of the "deep state." Yet they are celebrating Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili's visit to a conference in Washington, the very heart of the so-called "deep state”, as well as President Trump's thank-you letter. How do you explain this contradiction?

The Prosecutor's Office says its anti-corruption campaign is continuing and that 28 people have been arrested. But we still don't know who they are. Who is being targeted this time, and are we likely to see current or former ministers among them?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Talk Georgia brings you weekly news updates on the key political and regional developments in Georgia. New episodes drop every Saturday at 22:00. Don’t miss out!

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

PLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHARE

This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Questions of the week:

GD calls OSCE, EU, and US agents of the "deep state." Yet they are celebrating Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili's visit to a conference in Washington, the very heart of the so-called "deep state”, as well as President Trump's thank-you letter. How do you explain this contradiction?

The Prosecutor's Office says its anti-corruption campaign is continuing and that 28 people have been arrested. But we still don't know who they are. Who is being targeted this time, and are we likely to see current or former ministers among them?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

PLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREGuest: Defense and Security Expert, Former Diplomat Zurab Parjiani

01:29 Introducing the Guest

03:20 Ivanishvili, Power, and the Georgian StateWhat is Bidzina Ivanishvili ultimately trying to achieve?

11:48 Georgia's Strategic Direction: The West, Russia, or Strategic Ambiguity?Has Georgia abandoned its long-standing Western course?

19:01 Georgia in a Shifting Geopolitical Environment Where does Georgia fit into today's changing geopolitical landscape?25:53 The Future of the Georgian State What kind of state could Georgia become over the next five years?

34:28 Georgia's National SecurityWhat is the country's greatest national security vulnerability?

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREGuest: Defense and Security Expert, Former Diplomat Zurab ParjianiIvanishvili, Power, and the Georgian StateWhat is Bidzina Ivanishvili ultimately trying to achieve?Georgia's Strategic DirectionThe West, Russia, or Strategic Ambiguity?Has Georgia abandoned its long-standing Western course?Georgia in a Shifting Geopolitical Environment Where does Georgia fit into today's changing geopolitical landscape?The Future of the Georgian State What kind of state could Georgia become over the next five years?Georgia's National SecurityWhat is the country's greatest national security vulnerability?

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Questions of the week:

Ivanishvili leading Georgia towards long-term isolation and one-man rule as NATO shuts out Georgian Dream and the OSCE questions the integrity of future elections? Are Georgia’s NATO and EU aspirations effectively over?

The opposition says that by the end of August, all major opposition figures will be jailed or exiled, and their parties banned. Do you agree? If Ivanishvili's power is secure, why tighten the screws even further?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

PLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHARE

This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Questions of the week:

Ivanishvili leading Georgia towards long-term isolation and one-man rule as NATO shuts out Georgian Dream and the OSCE questions the integrity of future elections? Are Georgia’s NATO and EU aspirations effectively over?

The opposition says that by the end of August, all major opposition figures will be jailed or exiled, and their parties banned. Do you agree? If Ivanishvili's power is secure, why tighten the screws even further?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Talk Georgia brings you weekly news updates on the key political and regional developments in Georgia. New episodes drop every Saturday at 22:00. Don’t miss out!

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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Guest: Victor Kipiani, Chairman of the Georgia First Party.

02:30 Why launch a new political party - and why now? What are the challenges ahead?

07:10 The core mission of Georgia First and what makes it different

17:09 Who is Georgia First trying to represent?

19:58 How independent is Victor Kipiani? Why should voters trust he no longer represents Ivanishvili's interests?

23:48 What would Victor Kipiani have done differently if he had led the opposition?

28:15 Does he see a role for Bidzina Ivanishvili in Georgia's future politics?

29:47 Georgia First's economic vision for Georgia35:56 Georgia's foreign policy and its role in the region

45:57 Is he concerned that Ivanishvili may see him as a traitor and seek revenge?

50:57 Looking ahead: what would success for Georgia First and for Georgia look like in five years?

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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Guest: Victor Kipiani, Chairman of the Georgia First Party.

02:30 Why launch a new political party - and why now? What are the challenges ahead?

07:10 The core mission of Georgia First and what makes it different

17:09 Who is Georgia First trying to represent?

19:58 How independent is Victor Kipiani? Why should voters trust he no longer represents Ivanishvili's interests?

23:48 What would Victor Kipiani have done differently if he had led the opposition?

28:15 Does he see a role for Bidzina Ivanishvili in Georgia's future politics?

29:47 Georgia First's economic vision for Georgia35:56 Georgia's foreign policy and its role in the region

45:57 Is he concerned that Ivanishvili may see him as a traitor and seek revenge?

50:57 Looking ahead: what would success for Georgia First and for Georgia look like in five years?

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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his is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Questions of the week:

Gakharia's party is calling for an investigation into the violence in Parliament. What do you expect the Prosecutor's Office to do? Could Talakhadze and Gorduladze face charges?

Why has the so-called "sabotage" case accelerated? Is it aimed at paving the way for banning opposition parties, or at jailing opposition leaders for political leverage?

What message does President Mikheil Kavelashvili’s attendance at Ali Khamenei’s funeral send to Washington, and what does it reveal about Georgian Dream’s foreign policy priorities? Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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his is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Questions of the week:

Gakharia's party is calling for an investigation into the violence in Parliament. What do you expect the Prosecutor's Office to do? Could Talakhadze and Gorduladze face charges?

Why has the so-called "sabotage" case accelerated? Is it aimed at paving the way for banning opposition parties, or at jailing opposition leaders for political leverage?

What message does President Mikheil Kavelashvili’s attendance at Ali Khamenei’s funeral send to Washington, and what does it reveal about Georgian Dream’s foreign policy priorities? Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Talk Georgia brings you weekly news updates on the key political and regional developments in Georgia. New episodes drop every Saturday at 22:00. Don’t miss out!

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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Guest: Julie George — Political scientist, Professor at the City University of New York (CUNY) and Columbia University.

01:04 Introducing the Guest. Why Georgia, what brought her to this country and what made it one of the central points of her studies.

03:15. How Georgia’s political identity was transformed in the past 30 years. Shevardnadze, Saakashvili, Ivanishvili, who made the biggest impact on how Georgians understand themselves, their state, sovereignty, and place in Europe?

09:22 Why does Georgian Dream’s fear-based messaging - around war, foreign agents, and cultural threats - resonate with some voters? Can it reshape public opinion, or is it simply a strategy to maintain power through fear?

19:03 How does conflict proximity shape political identity? Does living near the occupation lines foster inclusion or exclusion? And how has Russia’s continued pressure reshaped Georgian identity?

27:00 Is competitive authoritarianism in Georgia becoming full authoritarianism? Looking at the courts, parliament, civil society, media, and a weakened opposition, where does Georgia stand between flawed democracy and consolidated authoritarianism?

31: 30 Did the Rose Revolution create today’s system? Could elite defections still trigger change, or has power become too centralized under Ivanishvili?

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Guest: Julie George — Political scientist, Professor at the City University of New York (CUNY) and Columbia University.

01:04 Introducing the Guest. Why Georgia, what brought her to this country and what made it one of the central points of her studies.

03:15. How Georgia’s political identity was transformed in the past 30 years. Shevardnadze, Saakashvili, Ivanishvili, who made the biggest impact on how Georgians understand themselves, their state, sovereignty, and place in Europe?

09:22 Why does Georgian Dream’s fear-based messaging - around war, foreign agents, and cultural threats - resonate with some voters? Can it reshape public opinion, or is it simply a strategy to maintain power through fear?

19:03 How does conflict proximity shape political identity? Does living near the occupation lines foster inclusion or exclusion? And how has Russia’s continued pressure reshaped Georgian identity?

27:00 Is competitive authoritarianism in Georgia becoming full authoritarianism? Looking at the courts, parliament, civil society, media, and a weakened opposition, where does Georgia stand between flawed democracy and consolidated authoritarianism?

31: 30 Did the Rose Revolution create today’s system? Could elite defections still trigger change, or has power become too centralized under Ivanishvili?

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Questions of the week:

GD has now equated Russia and the EU, claiming that Brussels, like Moscow, violates Georgia’s sovereignty. Have they hit rock bottom, or should we expect even more?

Another major corruption scandal has erupted in Georgia’s healthcare sector. Around 25 people have been charged, including a former deputy health minister. What do we know about this case, and who is being targeted this time?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Questions of the week:

GD has now equated Russia and the EU, claiming that Brussels, like Moscow, violates Georgia’s sovereignty. Have they hit rock bottom, or should we expect even more?

Another major corruption scandal has erupted in Georgia’s healthcare sector. Around 25 people have been charged, including a former deputy health minister. What do we know about this case, and who is being targeted this time?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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Guest: Davit Usupashvili — Lawyer, Politician, Former Chair of Parliament of Georgia | Former Leader of the Republican Party

01:37 Introducing the guest

04:00 Commenting on recent developments, including the Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association’s victory at the European Court of Human Rights, the harsh prison sentences handed to October 4 rally organisers and participants, and the growing use of Georgia’s judiciary to suppress political competition.

22:34 Revisiting the years 2012–2016, when he served as Chair of Parliament: when did the first warning signs emerge that Bidzina Ivanishvili sought not merely to govern the state, but to become the state?

44:13 Using the metaphor of Georgia as a critically ill patient, we discuss his diagnosis of the country’s condition and the treatment needed for recovery. and If Ivanishvili is gone tomorrow would that solve the problem?

53:24 Finally, looking ahead: what warning signs should Georgians watch for, and what are the best- and worst-case scenarios for the years to come?

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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Guest: Davit Usupashvili — Lawyer, Politician, Former Chair of Parliament of Georgia | Former Leader of the Republican Party

01:37 Introducing the guest

04:00 Commenting on recent developments, including the Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association’s victory at the European Court of Human Rights, the harsh prison sentences handed to October 4 rally organisers and participants, and the growing use of Georgia’s judiciary to suppress political competition.

22:34 Revisiting the years 2012–2016, when he served as Chair of Parliament: when did the first warning signs emerge that Bidzina Ivanishvili sought not merely to govern the state, but to become the state?

44:13 Using the metaphor of Georgia as a critically ill patient, we discuss his diagnosis of the country’s condition and the treatment needed for recovery. and If Ivanishvili is gone tomorrow would that solve the problem?

53:24 Finally, looking ahead: what warning signs should Georgians watch for, and what are the best- and worst-case scenarios for the years to come?

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Questions of the week:

Rati 

Five years in prison for a respected 72-year-old doctor. What message is Ivanishvili trying to send with this?

Nia 

Georgian Rail bosses are under investigation for fraud - does that signal more purges inside the GD?

Justin

What is happening within the United National Movement? Could anyone explain?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Talk Georgia brings you weekly news updates on the key political and regional developments in Georgia. New episodes drop every Saturday at 22:00. Don’t miss out!

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREThis is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.Top Questions of the week: Rati Five years in prison for a respected 72-year-old doctor. What message is Ivanishvili trying to send with this?Nia Georgian Rail bosses are under investigation for fraud - does that signal more purges inside the GD?JustinWhat is happening within the United National Movement? Could anyone explain?Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREGuest: Tamar Oniani | Chair of the Georgian Young Lawyers' Association01:47 - Tamar’s Personal JourneyHow challenging is it to chair GYLA while simultaneously pursuing a master's degree in Human Rights Law at the University of Oxford?05:09 - GYLA's Current SituationGYLA has temporarily transitioned into a crisis mode of operation. What led to this decision, and what does "crisis mode" mean in practical terms?10:55 - Recent Cases of Torture and Police AbuseThere have been numerous reports in recent months of detainees being beaten and tortured inside police stations. What evidence suggests these are not isolated incidents but part of a systemic pattern? How are these cases connected to the mass beatings and alleged torture during the dispersal of the 2024–2025 pro-EU demonstrations?18:58 - Authoritarian Legislative Changes in Georgia (2024–2026)Georgia has adopted a series of highly controversial laws, ranging from the so-called "Russian Law" on foreign influence to the recently enacted grants law and amendments affecting political parties. From the perspective of the rule of law and human rights, what do these legislative changes reveal about the country's overall trajectory? How is Georgia moving from the rule of law to rule by law?23:05 - The Current State of Georgia's Justice SystemGiven the current political and legal environment, what are the biggest challenges facing the country in the years ahead?27:23 - GYLA's Strategic LitigationWhat are the latest developments in GYLA's work before the European Court of Human Rights? What does strategic litigation involve, and why doesn't the process end even after winning a case before the Strasbourg Court?34:18 - GYLA's 2024 Election Vote Secrecy CaseWhat would happen if GYLA wins its 2024 election vote secrecy case before the European Court of Human Rights? What would the implementation of such a judgment look like, and what legal and practical consequences could it have for Georgia?

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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Guest: Tamar Oniani | Chair of the Georgian Young Lawyers' Association

- Tamar’s Personal Journey

- GYLA’s Current Situation

- Recent Cases of Torture and Police Abuse

- Legislative Changes in Georgia (2024–2026)

- Assessment of the Current State of Georgia’s Justice System

- GYLA’s Strategic International Litigation

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREThis is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.Top Questions of the week: FelixWhat explains PM Kobakhidze’s excessive praise of Ivanishvili, calling him a grand master of politics and dedicating a special briefing to his achievements? Isn’t that a bit too much, even by Georgian Dream’s standards?LucaIf Georgian Dream is genuinely interested in resetting relations with the United States, doesn’t Kobakhidze have enough common sense not to call Rubio a liar and dismiss Joe Wilson as unserious? And shouldn’t he stop boasting about Georgia’s comprehensive strategic partnership with China?Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Talk Georgia brings you weekly news updates on the key political and regional developments in Georgia. New episodes drop every Saturday at 22:00. Don’t miss out!

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREThis is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.Top Questions of the week: FelixWhat explains PM Kobakhidze’s excessive praise of Ivanishvili, calling him a grand master of politics and dedicating a special briefing to his achievements? Isn’t that a bit too much, even by Georgian Dream’s standards?LucaIf Georgian Dream is genuinely interested in resetting relations with the United States, doesn’t Kobakhidze have enough common sense not to call Rubio a liar and dismiss Joe Wilson as unserious? And shouldn’t he stop boasting about Georgia’s comprehensive strategic partnership with China?Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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Guest: Giorgi Tumasyan | Georgia First Political Initiative | MPA, Chairman of Armenian Community Platform of Georgia.

01:51 – Introducing the guest

02:52 – Analysis of the Armenian election results

12:22 – Assessing Russian interference in Armenia’s elections: has Moscow failed miserably, or is the game just beginning? What should Pashinyan’s government do to deter the Kremlin?

24:17 – Can Prime Minister Pashinyan continue walking a tightrope between Russia and the West? How can he defend Armenia’s democracy from Russian influence without becoming an autocrat himself?

43:51 – The impact of Armenia’s elections on Georgia: how a more democratic Armenia under Pashinyan’s government could become a second home for Georgians and support their struggle against authoritarianism

51:48 – Regional and geopolitical implications of Pashinyan’s electoral victory: can Armenia keep U.S. and EU attention focused on the South Caucasus? What should the EU do to shield Armenia from Russian pressure?

1:04:28 – Final message from Giorgi Tumasyan

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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Guest: Giorgi Tumasyan | Georgia First Political Initiative | MPA, Chairman of Armenian Community Platform of Georgia.

01:51 – Introducing the guest

02:52 – Analysis of the Armenian election results

12:22 – Assessing Russian interference in Armenia’s elections: has Moscow failed miserably, or is the game just beginning? What should Pashinyan’s government do to deter the Kremlin?

24:17 – Can Prime Minister Pashinyan continue walking a tightrope between Russia and the West? How can he defend Armenia’s democracy from Russian influence without becoming an autocrat himself?

43:51 – The impact of Armenia’s elections on Georgia: how a more democratic Armenia under Pashinyan’s government could become a second home for Georgians and support their struggle against authoritarianism

51:48 – Regional and geopolitical implications of Pashinyan’s electoral victory: can Armenia keep U.S. and EU attention focused on the South Caucasus? What should the EU do to shield Armenia from Russian pressure?

1:04:28 – Final message from Giorgi Tumasyan

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Questions of the week:

Jacques

French media are reporting an alleged spy scandal between Paris and Tbilisi, claiming that France had to withdraw two intelligence officers after Georgian authorities threatened to expose them. What do you know about the case? Is it linked to Mr Ivanishvili, who is a French national?

Nana

If Georgian Dream wants to improve relations with the US administration, why does Mr Kobakhidze continue to attack Joe Wilson and suggest that Secretary Rubio is lying?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Talk Georgia brings you weekly news updates on the key political and regional developments in Georgia. New episodes drop every Saturday at 22:00. Don’t miss out!

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

PLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHARE

This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Questions of the week:

Jacques

French media are reporting an alleged spy scandal between Paris and Tbilisi, claiming that France had to withdraw two intelligence officers after Georgian authorities threatened to expose them. What do you know about the case? Is it linked to Mr Ivanishvili, who is a French national?

Nana

If Georgian Dream wants to improve relations with the US administration, why does Mr Kobakhidze continue to attack Joe Wilson and suggest that Secretary Rubio is lying?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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Guest: Khatia Dekanoidze, former Education Minister of Georgia and former Chief of Ukraine’s National Police.

01:05 – Introducing the Guest

03:31 – How she came across How to Stand Up to a Dictator by Maria Ressa, why she decided to translate it into Georgian, and what she is translating next.

08:04 – Khatia Dekanoidze’s path to police reform in Georgia and Ukraine. Which was more difficult?

22:07 – What would she do differently if she were reforming the police and other law enforcement agencies today? And what does the Gori incident reveal about the state of the Georgian police?

33:03 – Current affairs: the alleged spy scandal and the Ministry of Internal Affairs’ so-called “censorship department.” Is Ivanishvili a spin dictator, and how does he use propaganda to maintain his power?

43:26 – The Saakashvili–Melia “war of letters”: who benefits, where it is heading, and how the opposition can regain momentum and challenge Ivanishvili’s rule.

54:32 – Regional geopolitics: developments on the battlefield in Ukraine, growing U.S. and European engagement in the Caucasus, Armenia’s critical elections, Russia’s attempts to meddle, and Georgia’s place in a changing region.

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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Guest: Khatia Dekanoidze, former Education Minister of Georgia and former Chief of Ukraine’s National Police.

01:05 – Introducing the Guest

03:31 – How she came across How to Stand Up to a Dictator by Maria Ressa, why she decided to translate it into Georgian, and what she is translating next.

08:04 – Khatia Dekanoidze’s path to police reform in Georgia and Ukraine. Which was more difficult?

22:07 – What would she do differently if she were reforming the police and other law enforcement agencies today? And what does the Gori incident reveal about the state of the Georgian police?

33:03 – Current affairs: the alleged spy scandal and the Ministry of Internal Affairs’ so-called “censorship department.” Is Ivanishvili a spin dictator, and how does he use propaganda to maintain his power?

43:26 – The Saakashvili–Melia “war of letters”: who benefits, where it is heading, and how the opposition can regain momentum and challenge Ivanishvili’s rule.

54:32 – Regional geopolitics: developments on the battlefield in Ukraine, growing U.S. and European engagement in the Caucasus, Armenia’s critical elections, Russia’s attempts to meddle, and Georgia’s place in a changing region.

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Questions of the week:

Lucy

I’m relatively new to Georgia. On 26 May, I had mixed feelings. In the morning, Georgia seemed almost like a theocratic state. But by the evening, seeing thousands of people in the streets calling for freedom, I started to think differently. Which side of Georgia is winning in the end?

Giorgi

The Gori incident shows that police violence is not about political affiliation. It is widespread and systemic. Do you think it could become a trigger, like the Girgvliani case or even the prison abuse footage?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Questions of the week:

Lucy

I’m relatively new to Georgia. On 26 May, I had mixed feelings. In the morning, Georgia seemed almost like a theocratic state. But by the evening, seeing thousands of people in the streets calling for freedom, I started to think differently. Which side of Georgia is winning in the end?

Giorgi

The Gori incident shows that police violence is not about political affiliation. It is widespread and systemic. Do you think it could become a trigger, like the Girgvliani case or even the prison abuse footage?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Talk Georgia brings you weekly news updates on the key political and regional developments in Georgia. New episodes drop every Saturday at 22:00. Don’t miss out !

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREGuest: Zurab Japaridze, Chairman of the Girchi – More Freedom party01:20 Introducing the Guest03:17 Why politics, and why libertarianism?11:13 Did prison change him? If so, how?22:14 May 26 rally — the return of protest. What comes next? The road to victory: the opposition alliance’s vision.31:36 Why Georgian Dream no longer prioritises public opinion or popular support36:08 “In the end, we will win” — but when?43:07 Geopolitics: where is the balance of power shifting, and where does Georgia stand? Why is international pressure insufficient, and why are sanctions lagging behind?49:55 Why it is unrealistic for Georgian Dream to reset relations with the US administration in the current climate - and why greater US engagement, in any form, would benefit Georgia.

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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Guest: Zurab Japaridze, Chairman of the Girchi – More Freedom party

01:20 Introducing the Guest

03:17 Why politics, and why libertarianism?

11:13 Did prison change him? If so, how?

22:14 May 26 rally — the return of protest. What comes next? The road to victory: the opposition alliance’s vision.

31:36 Why Georgian Dream no longer prioritises public opinion or popular support

36:08 “In the end, we will win” — but when?

43:07 Geopolitics: where is the balance of power shifting, and where does Georgia stand? Why is international pressure insufficient, and why are sanctions lagging behind?

49:55 Why it is unrealistic for Georgian Dream to reset relations with the US administration in the current climate - and why greater US engagement, in any form, would benefit Georgia.

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHARE

This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Question of the week from Mark

Why have the Georgian Dream’s attacks on the European Union become especially intense now? A confrontational letter from Kobakhidze to the heads of EU institutions, and Shalva Papuashvili’s direct insults toward the German ambassador. Why specifically Denmark and Germany? And what is Bidzina Ivanishvili trying to achieve? Is he preparing ground for a final rejection of the European Union?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Talk Georgia brings you weekly news updates on the key political and regional developments in Georgia. New episodes drop every Saturday at 22:00. Don’t miss out !

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHARE

This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Question of the week from Mark

Why have the Georgian Dream’s attacks on the European Union become especially intense now? A confrontational letter from Kobakhidze to the heads of EU institutions, and Shalva Papuashvili’s direct insults toward the German ambassador. Why specifically Denmark and Germany? And what is Bidzina Ivanishvili trying to achieve? Is he preparing ground for a final rejection of the European Union?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREGuest: Thornike Gordadze | Professor at Science Po Paris | Eastern Neighbourhood and Black Sea program fellow at the Jacques Delors Institute | former State Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration 01:40 Guest Introduction5:32 What does Georgian Dream Prime Minister Kobakhidze’s confrontational open letter to EU leaders signify about GD’s policy toward the European Union?15:26 The political and geopolitical aspects of the election of Shio III as the new patriarch of Georgia: did Bidzina Ivanishvili and the Kremlin get what they wanted?27:33 The French National Assembly resolution on Georgia: which political forces in France supported it, and what are its political significance and practical implications? Are French sanctions in the pipeline?39:37 A positive shift in Ukraine–Georgia relations? The Zelensky–Kobakhidze pull-aside meeting and the Sybiha–Bochorishvili talks, yet anti-Zelensky propaganda continues and Tbilisi refuses to join the tribunal against Russia — what do we know and what should we expect?47:55 Regional politics: a power shift in the South Caucasus - the US and EU are coming in as Russia goes out. Azerbaijan and Armenia are both winning. Where’s Georgia?

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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Guest: Thornike Gordadze | Professor at Science Po Paris | Eastern Neighbourhood and Black Sea program fellow at the Jacques Delors Institute | former State Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration

What does Georgian Dream Prime Minister Kobakhidze’s confrontational open letter to EU leaders signify about GD’s policy toward the European Union?

The political and geopolitical aspects of the election of Shio III as the new patriarch of Georgia: did Bidzina Ivanishvili and the Kremlin get what they wanted?

The French National Assembly resolution on Georgia: which political forces in France supported it, and what are its political significance and practical implications?

Are French sanctions in the pipeline?A positive shift in Ukraine–Georgia relations? The Zelensky–Kobakhidze pull-aside meeting and the Sybiha–Bochorishvili talks, yet anti-Zelensky propaganda continues and Tbilisi refuses to join the tribunal against Russia — what do we know and what should we expect?

Regional politics: a power shift in the South Caucasus - the US and EU are coming in as Russia goes out. Azerbaijan and Armenia are both winning. Where’s Georgia?

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Questions of the week from Dan and Maria

What is happening in Ukraine–Georgia relations? We’ve seen some signs of warming, yet Georgia has not joined the tribunal against Russia, while Georgian Dream continues throwing mud at Zelensky. Any idea what’s going on?

Imedi TV was barred from the European Parliament for a year, and Rustavi 2 and Pos TV were not allowed in Moldova. Do you think this could be a prelude to European sanctions, after the UK already sanctioned them?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Questions of the week from Dan and Maria

What is happening in Ukraine–Georgia relations? We’ve seen some signs of warming, yet Georgia has not joined the tribunal against Russia, while Georgian Dream continues throwing mud at Zelensky. Any idea what’s going on?

Imedi TV was barred from the European Parliament for a year, and Rustavi 2 and Pos TV were not allowed in Moldova. Do you think this could be a prelude to European sanctions, after the UK already sanctioned them?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Talk Georgia brings you weekly news updates on the key political and regional developments in Georgia. New episodes drop every Saturday at 22:00. Don’t miss out!

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Guest: Tamar Chergoleishvili - A Federalists Party Founder.

— Guest Introduction

— Why party politics? And when two leaders of one party are living under one roof, does it make things easier or more difficult?

— How is the Federalists Party doing, and in the present climate, when it is on a ban list, would that change anything?

— Commenting on the current developments: the new Patriarch, the Volodymyr Zelenskyy–Irakli Kobakhidze meeting, the French Assembly adopting a resolution on Georgia, the international pressure on Bidzina Ivanishvili amid the changing geopolitical climate, and the GD propaganda.

— What should we expect from the 26 May rally, why should people come to the demonstration, and what will happen afterward?

— The Opposition Alliance: What’s happening inside it, what are the key expectations and challenges it faces, and what will be its next move?

— If we look at how the stars are moving in geopolitics, is it a time to throw stones or a time to gather stones?

— Tamara’s final message.

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Guest: Tamar Chergoleishvili - A Federalists Party Founder.

— Guest Introduction

— Why party politics? And when two leaders of one party are living under one roof, does it make things easier or more difficult?

— How is the Federalists Party doing, and in the present climate, when it is on a ban list, would that change anything?

— Commenting on the current developments: the new Patriarch, the Volodymyr Zelenskyy–Irakli Kobakhidze meeting, the French Assembly adopting a resolution on Georgia, the international pressure on Bidzina Ivanishvili amid the changing geopolitical climate, and the GD propaganda.

— What should we expect from the 26 May rally, why should people come to the demonstration, and what will happen afterward?

— The Opposition Alliance: What’s happening inside it, what are the key expectations and challenges it faces, and what will be its next move?

— If we look at how the stars are moving in geopolitics, is it a time to throw stones or a time to gather stones?

— Tamara’s final message.

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Question of the week from Laura

Do the arrests of special force officers indicate a softening of Georgian Dream’s policy? Could they be linked to the Kobakhidze–Zelenskyy meeting or the visit of the U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary? If so, how do you explain the espionage cases, the seven-year sentences for the October 4 organisers?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Question of the week from Laura

Do the arrests of special force officers indicate a softening of Georgian Dream’s policy? Could they be linked to the Kobakhidze–Zelenskyy meeting or the visit of the U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary? If so, how do you explain the espionage cases, the seven-year sentences for the October 4 organisers?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Talk Georgia brings you weekly news updates on the key political and regional developments in Georgia. New episodes drop every Saturday at 22:00. Don’t miss out!

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHARE

Talk Georgia with Giorgi Rukhadze. Episode 48.

Guest: Gigi Gigiadze | Senior Fellow at the Economic Policy Research Centre | Former Deputy Foreign Minister of Georgia | Former Ambassador of Georgia to the Kingdom of Denmark and the Republic of Iceland

The European Political Community Summit and the EU–Armenia Summit in Yerevan: Importance, Key Messages, and Agreements

A growing European focus on the Caucasus and declining Russian influence. Is Yerevan becoming the region’s new center of gravity while Georgia falls behind? Where might Georgia stand today under a legitimate, pro-Western government?

We break down the Zelensky–Kobakhidze pull-aside meeting: who pulled whom aside, and was there a message for Ivanishvili?

What is the Ivanishvili regime aiming for? Is it attempting to turn Georgia into an Azerbaijan without oil and gas - leveraging geography as a form of geopolitical bargaining? Seeking recognition and long-term power in exchange for cooperation on connectivity and energy projects?

The bigger picture: in a post–Russia–Ukraine war landscape, with the U.S. and EU pushing Russia out of the Caucasus, what role can Georgia play under the current leadership?

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Talk Georgia with Giorgi Rukhadze. Episode 48.

Guest: Gigi Gigiadze | Senior Fellow at the Economic Policy Research Centre | Former Deputy Foreign Minister of Georgia | Former Ambassador of Georgia to the Kingdom of Denmark and the Republic of Iceland

The European Political Community Summit and the EU–Armenia Summit in Yerevan: Importance, Key Messages, and Agreements

A growing European focus on the Caucasus and declining Russian influence. Is Yerevan becoming the region’s new center of gravity while Georgia falls behind? Where might Georgia stand today under a legitimate, pro-Western government?

We break down the Zelensky–Kobakhidze pull-aside meeting: who pulled whom aside, and was there a message for Ivanishvili?

What is the Ivanishvili regime aiming for? Is it attempting to turn Georgia into an Azerbaijan without oil and gas - leveraging geography as a form of geopolitical bargaining? Seeking recognition and long-term power in exchange for cooperation on connectivity and energy projects?

The bigger picture: in a post–Russia–Ukraine war landscape, with the U.S. and EU pushing Russia out of the Caucasus, what role can Georgia play under the current leadership?

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Question of the week from Kote & Anastasia

Does Shio Mujiri’s lead in the Patriarchal election mean that the game is over? and how about external involvement that the bishops themselves talk about? What was this price commission about, both its creation and its conclusion? Now we’re told high prices are no longer a problem, and that prices in Georgia are much lower than in Europe. Three months ago it was the opposite.

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

PLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHARE

This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Question of the week from Kote & Anastasia

Does Shio Mujiri’s lead in the Patriarchal election mean that the game is over? and how about external involvement that the bishops themselves talk about? What was this price commission about, both its creation and its conclusion? Now we’re told high prices are no longer a problem, and that prices in Georgia are much lower than in Europe. Three months ago it was the opposite.

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Talk Georgia brings you weekly news updates on the key political and regional developments in Georgia. New episodes drop every Saturday at 22:00. Don’t miss out!

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

PLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHARE

Talk Georgia with Giorgi Rukhadze. Episode - 47.

Guest: Irakli Kiknavelidze - Journalist | Church-State Relations Expert

Why the Patriarchal Election Matters Politically in Georgia

How autonomous is the Holy Synod? Who are the main candidates, what do they represent, and is the outcome already decided?

Church–State Relations Over the Past 30 Years

How have they evolved? Is the Patriarchate still an alternative center of power, or has that era ended with the death of Patriarch Ilia II?

The Geopolitical Dimension

Do Ivanishvili’s and Moscow’s interests align on this issue, or do they diverge? Is the Ecumenical Patriarch genuinely seeking to influence the process, or is that just Russian propaganda?

Implications for Georgia’s Political Future

What kinds of election outcomes would signal a better or worse trajectory for the Georgian state?

Additional Perspectives

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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Talk Georgia with Giorgi Rukhadze. Episode - 47.

Guest: Irakli Kiknavelidze - Journalist | Church-State Relations Expert

Why the Patriarchal Election Matters Politically in Georgia

How autonomous is the Holy Synod? Who are the main candidates, what do they represent, and is the outcome already decided?

Church–State Relations Over the Past 30 Years

How have they evolved? Is the Patriarchate still an alternative center of power, or has that era ended with the death of Patriarch Ilia II?

The Geopolitical Dimension

Do Ivanishvili’s and Moscow’s interests align on this issue, or do they diverge? Is the Ecumenical Patriarch genuinely seeking to influence the process, or is that just Russian propaganda?

Implications for Georgia’s Political Future

What kinds of election outcomes would signal a better or worse trajectory for the Georgian state?

Additional Perspectives

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Question of the week from Anthony & Lisa

What is behind the recent cabinet reshuffle? Is it Kobakhidze, Mdinaradze, or both who may face trouble? While Georgian Dream often attacks EU ambassadors, it remains largely silent on statements from figures like Zakharova or the Iranian ambassador - and how come now it moved to arrest alleged Russian spies?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Talk Georgia brings you weekly news updates on the key political and regional developments in Georgia. New episodes drop every Saturday at 22:00. Don’t miss out!

NewEdit

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Question of the week from Anthony & Lisa

What is behind the recent cabinet reshuffle? Is it Kobakhidze, Mdinaradze, or both who may face trouble? While Georgian Dream often attacks EU ambassadors, it remains largely silent on statements from figures like Zakharova or the Iranian ambassador - and how come now it moved to arrest alleged Russian spies?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

PLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHARE

Guest: Vado Machavariani - Civic Activist | Leader of the political movement Sartuli – New Generation Force.

Guest Introduction: Who is Vado Machavariani?

Vado’s path into politics: how political movement Sartuli – New Generation Force was founded and what sets it apart from similar movements.

The example of the Hungarian elections: does he see himself as a Georgian Péter Magyar, with the power and ambition to defeat an autocrat on his own?

Georgia’s fate should be decided in Tbilisi and nowhere else: where does Sartuli stand on foreign policy?

Is being part of the Machavariani family an advantage or an obstacle in his political career?

Vado Machavariani on the recent cabinet reshuffle, the problems faced by children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Tsotne Ivanishvili’s statements, and more.

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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Guest: Vado Machavariani - Civic Activist | Leader of the political movement Sartuli – New Generation Force.

Guest Introduction: Who is Vado Machavariani?

Vado’s path into politics: how political movement Sartuli – New Generation Force was founded and what sets it apart from similar movements.

The example of the Hungarian elections: does he see himself as a Georgian Péter Magyar, with the power and ambition to defeat an autocrat on his own?

Georgia’s fate should be decided in Tbilisi and nowhere else: where does Sartuli stand on foreign policy?

Is being part of the Machavariani family an advantage or an obstacle in his political career?

Vado Machavariani on the recent cabinet reshuffle, the problems faced by children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Tsotne Ivanishvili’s statements, and more.

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Question of the week from Gigi

Do you see any connection between Maria Zakharova’s recent statements, Orbán’s electoral defeat, the closure of the skies over Abastumani, and Georgia’s State Security Service claim that certain Igor Blaževič is now organising a revolution in Tbilisi? Any explanations?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

PLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHARE

This is a special edition of Talk Georgia, which airs every Sunday at 22:00, where Giorgi Rukhadze and Nodar Kharshiladze answer audience questions about Georgian and regional politics.

Top Question of the week from Gigi

Do you see any connection between Maria Zakharova’s recent statements, Orbán’s electoral defeat, the closure of the skies over Abastumani, and Georgia’s State Security Service claim that certain Igor Blaževič is now organising a revolution in Tbilisi? Any explanations?

Please send your questions for the next show to talkgeorgia1@gmail.com

Talk Georgia brings you weekly news updates on the key political and regional developments in Georgia. New episodes drop every Saturday at 22:00. Don’t miss out!

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

PLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHARE

Guest: Ghia Nadia Political Analyst | Professor at the Ilia State University | Former Minister of Education and Science.

- Commenting on Hungarian Elections: What Will Change and What Can We Learn?

- Where Is Georgia on the Regime Spectrum? From semi-authoritarianism to full dictatorship, where does it stand on this scale?

- Developments in the Caucasus:Increased U.S. engagement in Armenia and Azerbaijan, alongside growing reluctance towards Georgia

- Can Georgia Reclaim Its EU Integration Path and Regain Its Leading Role in the Caucasus?

- Georgia’s Regional Role Under Status Quo Leadership

- Developments in the Middle East:Impact on the region and U.S. exit options in the run-up to midterm elections

- And more

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgia

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Guest: Ghia Nadia Political Analyst | Professor at Ilia State University | Former Minister of Education and Science.

- Commenting on Hungarian Elections: What Will Change and What Can We Learn?

- Where Is Georgia on the Regime Spectrum? From semi-authoritarianism to full dictatorship, where does it stand on this scale?

- Developments in the Caucasus:Increased U.S. engagement in Armenia and Azerbaijan, alongside growing reluctance towards Georgia

- Can Georgia Reclaim Its EU Integration Path and Regain Its Leading Role in the Caucasus?

- Georgia’s Regional Role Under Status Quo Leadership

- Developments in the Middle East:Impact on the region and U.S. exit options in the run-up to midterm elections

- And more