**Russia’s Influence in Georgia: Givi Targamadze’s Arrest and the Future of Democracy**
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the Georgian opposition, the country’s “RussDreamers” government has arrested Givi Targamadze, a prominent politician who had been fiercely fighting against Russia’s influence. According to Ana Tsitlidze, leader of the “Unity – United National Movement,” there is a high probability that Targamadze will be handed over to the Russians.
**A History of Repression**
Targamadze’s arrest is not an isolated incident. Under the current regime, opposition politicians have faced severe repression. Mikheil Saakashvili, a former president and leader of the UNM, has been imprisoned for years on Russian orders. Targamadze himself had been targeted by Russia in the past, with a car bombing attempt on his life in 2016. He miraculously survived, but the case remains unsolved.
**A Regime in Crisis**
Tsitlidze believes that the current regime is in crisis and is trying to show force through arrests and intimidation. However, she also sees this as a sign of weakness. “Strength does not rely on violence,” she said. “A strong government doesn’t twist arms if it believes in its own truth.”
**The Opposition’s Response**
The opposition has been quick to respond to Targamadze’s arrest. Tsitlidze called for unity and solidarity, saying that the regime will go after all active citizens once they are done with politicians. She also emphasized that Targamadze had a moral right to leave the country, but instead chose to stay and fight against the regime.
**The West’s Mistake**
Tsitlidze believes that the West made a critical mistake in not believing that Georgian Dream was pro-Russian until Russia launched its aggression in Ukraine. “They had great support from Europeans and Americans,” she said, “but they squandered it and equated themselves with Russia, Iran, and China.” This was a deliberate plan, she claimed.
**The Future of Democracy**
As the opposition continues to face repression, the future of democracy in Georgia remains uncertain. Tsitlidze called for the opposition to use this weakness wisely and to continue fighting against the regime. “We must do everything we can to overthrow this regime,” she said.
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