Georgia-Ukraine Relations Strained Over Accusations of Illegal Activities
On February 6, the Embassy of Ukraine in Georgia issued a statement in response to the information released by the Georgian State Security Service, expressing its intention to verify the details and investigate the circumstances surrounding the involvement of Ukrainian citizens in the alleged illegal activities.
In its statement, the embassy emphasized the importance of refraining from politicizing the case and expressed its interest in maintaining a constructive relationship with Georgian law enforcement and other competent bodies. The embassy underscored the need for an objective, impartial, and comprehensive investigation to clarify all aspects of the case and identify its true organizers.
On the same day, Prime Minister-designate Irakli Kobakhidze responded to the embassy's statement, suggesting that if Ukraine had an ambassador in Georgia, they might not have issued such a statement. Kobakhidze emphasized that politicization should not overshadow the issue of national security, indicating that threats to state interests must be addressed irrespective of political considerations.
Kobakhidze further highlighted the seriousness of the situation, suggesting that the revelations made by the State Security Service indicate an attempt by high-ranking Ukrainian officials to create instability in Georgia. He characterized the situation as an attempt to open a "second front" in Georgia, implying that external forces seek to incite conflict within the country. Kobakhidze stressed the need for vigilance and unity in the face of such threats to Georgia's sovereignty and stability.
As previously reported by Caucasus Watch, the State Security Service of Georgia (SSS) announced the seizure of explosive devices and substances, including C-4, in an operation. Two electric car batteries containing six special explosive devices were confiscated. These devices had electronic detonators and timers, indicating high-level craftsmanship for potential large-scale damage. The explosives originated from Ukraine, passing through Romania, Bulgaria, and Turkey before entering Georgia. They were intended for transport to Russia, particularly Voronezh, with one container destined for Tbilisi intercepted at the Georgia-Russia border. Seven Georgian, three Ukrainian, and two Armenian citizens have been charged with offenses related to importing, transporting, and planting explosives. The orchestrator, Andrei Sharashidze, a former candidate for deputy from Georgia, was identified as a Ukrainian citizen. The SSS is actively investigating to identify individuals involved and their intended targets, suspecting a concerted effort to implicate Georgia in planned terrorist acts.