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 📣 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/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREGuest: 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 [email protected]

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 [email protected]

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREGuest: Giorgi Tumasyan | Georgia First Political Initiative | MPA, Chairman of Armenian Community Platform of Georgia.01:51 – Introducing the guest02:52 – Analysis of the Armenian election results12:22 – 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 authoritarianism51:48 – 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/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREGuest: Giorgi Tumasyan | Georgia First Political Initiative | MPA, Chairman of Armenian Community Platform of Georgia.01:51 – Introducing the guest02:52 – Analysis of the Armenian election results12:22 – 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 authoritarianism51:48 – 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/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: JacquesFrench 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?NanaIf 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 [email protected]

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: JacquesFrench 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?NanaIf 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 [email protected]

Support Talk Georgia by subscribing on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/TalkGeorgia or donating at https://buymeacoffee.com/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREGuest: Khatia Dekanoidze, former Education Minister of Georgia and former Chief of Ukraine’s National Police.01:05 – Introducing the Guest03:31 – 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/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREGuest: Khatia Dekanoidze, former Education Minister of Georgia and former Chief of Ukraine’s National Police.01:05 – Introducing the Guest03:31 – 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/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: LucyI’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?GiorgiThe 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 [email protected]

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: LucyI’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?GiorgiThe 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 [email protected]

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/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/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 MarkWhy 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 [email protected]

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 MarkWhy 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 [email protected]

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/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 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/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 from Dan and MariaWhat 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 [email protected]

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 from Dan and MariaWhat 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 [email protected]

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: 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/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREGuest: 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/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 LauraDo 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 [email protected]

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 LauraDo 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 [email protected]

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 📣 SHARETalk 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 AgreementsA 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/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHARETalk 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 AgreementsA 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/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 Kote & AnastasiaDoes 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 [email protected]

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 Kote & AnastasiaDoes 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 [email protected]

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 📣 SHARETalk Georgia with Giorgi Rukhadze. Episode - 47.Guest: Irakli Kiknavelidze - Journalist | Church-State Relations ExpertWhy the Patriarchal Election Matters Politically in GeorgiaHow 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 YearsHow 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/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHARETalk Georgia with Giorgi Rukhadze. Episode - 47.Guest: Irakli Kiknavelidze - Journalist | Church-State Relations ExpertWhy the Patriarchal Election Matters Politically in GeorgiaHow 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 YearsHow 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/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 Anthony & LisaWhat 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 [email protected]

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/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 Anthony & LisaWhat 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 [email protected]

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

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 GigiDo 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 [email protected]

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: 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/talkgeorgiaPLEASE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE ❤️ LIKE 💬 COMMENT 📣 SHAREGuest: 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

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 NonaWhat do you think Ivanishvili’s meeting with Aliyev was about? He doesn’t usually meet foreign leaders. Was it business, transit routes, developments in Iran, or something else? And why did his “mouthpiece” Shatirishvili suddenly resurface again and predict Orbán’s defeat?Please send your questions for the next show to [email protected]

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 NonaWhat do you think Ivanishvili’s meeting with Aliyev was about? He doesn’t usually meet foreign leaders. Was it business, transit routes, developments in Iran, or something else? And why did his “mouthpiece” Shatirishvili suddenly resurface again and predict Orbán’s defeat?Please send your questions for the next show to [email protected]

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!