Sunday, December 7, 2025

Why is Georgia building a new airport just 90 km from Tbilisi?

TBILISI, September 4 – A planned airport in Telavi, eastern Georgia, is stirring debate over whether it makes sense economically or logistically. The project, meant for domestic flights, has faced delays and criticism, with aviation experts questioning its purpose. Back in February 2024, “Khmaladze Architects” won a tender to design the terminal for about 296,000 … Read more

Kvaratskhelia leads Georgia into 2026 World Cup campaign

TBILISI, September 4 – Georgia kicks off its road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup on September 4 with a home game against Turkey at Tbilisi’s Dinamo Arena. The match, set for 20:00 local time, will be refereed by Italy’s Davide Massa. Both sides are bringing star-studded squads. According to Transfermarkt, Georgia’s most valuable player … Read more

One more ‘politicized’ criminal trial ends in acquittal

TBILISI, September 4 – A Tbilisi court has acquitted journalist Nika Katsia, who was accused of possessing a large quantity of cocaine, in a verdict welcomed by human rights defenders but immediately appealed by prosecutors. The Public Defender of Georgia praised the ruling, saying it underscored the need for police to provide neutral evidence—such as … Read more

Ruling party moves to outlaw opposition

TBILISI, September 3 – Georgia’s ruling party, Georgian Dream, is weighing whether to push for a ban on the United National Movement (UNM), the party founded by former president Mikheil Saakashvili. The debate follows a lengthy parliamentary investigation led by Vice Speaker Tea Tsulukiani, which portrays the UNM era (2004–2012) as marked by abuses, mismanagement, … Read more

Man carrying firearm arrested at opposition rally

TBILISI, September 3 – Police have arrested a 62 year old man carrying a firearm during an anti-government protest on Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the suspect was walking among the protesters carrying a firearm. Officers confiscated the weapon on the spot, and later searches at his home uncovered … Read more

23 detained outside parliament as report on UNM regime discussed

TBILISI, September 2 – Police detained 23 protesters on Rustaveli Avenue Tuesday during demonstrations against a new parliamentary report on government crimes under Saakashvili (2004-2012). The Ministry of Internal Affairs confirmed that all detainees were taken in on administrative charges. It urged participants to “stop attempts to gather on the roadway,” after several groups tried … Read more

New report accuses Saakashvili government of systemic torture and abuse

TBILISI, September 2 – Georgia’s parliament has released the findings of a temporary investigative commission led by Vice Speaker Tea Tsulukiani, scrutinizing the presidency of Mikheil Saakashvili (2004–2012). The 460-page report paints a grim picture, alleging systemic torture, unlawful imprisonment, and widespread violations of human rights under a “zero tolerance” crime policy. According to Tsulukiani, … Read more

Georgian PM accuses NGOs of anti-state activity

TBILISI, September 1 – Georgia’s Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has accused non-governmental organizations (NGOs) of playing a direct role in what he called “anti-state activities” and revolutionary processes in the country. Speaking to reporters, Kobakhidze said the matter is now in the hands of investigators and stressed that “everyone is obliged to cooperate with the … Read more

Why many Georgians find it cheaper to vacation abroad

TBILISI, September 1 – Tourism in Georgia is thriving, but locals are feeling the pinch. According to the National Statistics Office, domestic visitors spent an average of 166.9 lari ($62) per trip in the second quarter of 2025, up 7.4% from last year. While seaside resorts and mountain getaways are packed, many Georgians complain that … Read more

Opposition pitches housing safety and justice in Tbilisi election

TBILISI, September 1 – Two of Georgia’s opposition parties stepped up their campaigning efforts Monday, accusing the ruling Georgian Dream (GD) government of neglecting basic needs in the capital while spending lavishly on prestige projects. At a rally in Mtatsminda district, Aleko Elisashvili, running for deputy mayor for the joint ticket of Lelo and For … Read more