**Tbilisi Mayor Fires Back at EU’s Kallas, Calls Statements “Blackmail”**
In a heated response to the statement made by Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze accused the EU of using blackmail tactics against Georgia. The comments come as tensions between the EU and Georgia escalate over issues such as sanctions on Russia and the visa-free regime.
According to Kaladze, “when it comes to the country’s interests, compromise is unthinkable.” He went on to say that the EU’s demands for Georgia to comply with their policies are a form of blackmail, particularly since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war. “We did not comply with their demands, did not join the sanctions, and did not allow the opening of a ‘second front’ in the country,” Kaladze stated.
Kaladze also took issue with Kallas’ statement that all options are on the table regarding Georgia, including the termination of the visa-free regime. “This is all part of the blackmail we have been witnessing in recent years,” he said. The Tbilisi Mayor insisted that the Georgian government’s policy is simple: to protect the country and its interests.
**Defending Against Slanderous Statements**
Kaladze emphasized that the ruling team is in a defensive mode, not an offensive one. “Where have you seen us attacking anyone?” he asked. He pointed out that Georgia is defending itself against unjust and slanderous statements from the West. “It’s very painful when they call white black; it’s very painful when there are double standards regarding your country,” Kaladze stated.
The Tbilisi Mayor also expressed his disappointment with the EU bureaucracy, saying that it has lost its values. “For me, my teammates, and I am sure for the majority of our country’s population, Europe and European values are very dear and important, but today’s European bureaucracy is devoid of the values that are precious to the Georgian people,” Kaladze said.
**Blackmail or Diplomacy?**
The comments from Kaladze highlight a growing divide between Georgia and the EU. While the EU has been calling for Georgia to take a stronger stance against Russia, the country has chosen not to comply with their demands. The question remains whether this is a case of blackmail or simply diplomacy.
As tensions continue to rise, it’s clear that both sides have strong opinions on the matter. One thing is certain: the fate of the visa-free regime and Georgia’s relations with the EU hang in the balance.
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