**US and European Politicians Criticized for Soviet-Like Behavior**
Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has spoken out against what he sees as Soviet-like behavior from some American and European politicians. In a statement, Kobakhidze accused Joe Wilson, an American parliamentarian, and Rasa Juknevičienė, a European Parliamentarian, of promoting similar “Soviet attitudes” that are not in line with the values of the United States or Europe.
According to Kobakhidze, these politicians are trying to prevent representatives from Georgia’s ruling party, Georgian Dream, from participating in the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly meeting in Porto at the end of June. The Prime Minister believes that this move is a sign of unhealthy attitudes and a return to Soviet-era practices.
“We knew a different Europe at the end of the last century,” Kobakhidze said. “We knew a different United States of America, not the one that Joe Wilson embodies.” He emphasized that it’s essential for the US and Europe to establish healthy attitudes instead of those characteristic of the Soviet era.
Kobakhidze also made a direct comparison between Joe Wilson and Rasa Juknevičienė, stating that they share similar qualities. “Joe Wilson and Rasa are absolutely the same type,” he said. “The soviet spirit is directly reflected in these people.” Kobakhidze criticized Rasa for her close ties to former Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili, whom she has continued to support even after his regime ended.
**Commentary**
Kobakhidze’s comments are a clear indication of the tension between Georgia and some Western countries over the country’s political developments. The Prime Minister’s criticism of Joe Wilson and Rasa Juknevičienė reflects the deep-seated disagreements between Georgia and its Western allies on issues such as democratic values, human rights, and freedom of expression.
The reference to Soviet-like behavior is a sensitive topic in the post-Soviet space, where many countries are still grappling with the legacy of communist rule. By highlighting these similarities, Kobakhidze aims to draw attention to what he sees as an unhealthy approach by some Western politicians towards Georgia’s internal affairs.
**Deeper Analysis**
Kobakhidze’s statement raises important questions about the role of Western countries in promoting democratic values and respecting sovereignty in post-Soviet states. The criticism directed at Joe Wilson and Rasa Juknevičienė suggests that these politicians are not adhering to the principles of democracy and human rights, which are supposed to guide Western foreign policy.
The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly meeting in Porto is a significant event that brings together parliamentarians from across Europe and beyond. The fact that some politicians are trying to prevent Georgian Dream representatives from participating highlights the complex dynamics at play between Georgia and its Western partners.
Ultimately, Kobakhidze’s statement serves as a reminder of the need for open dialogue and cooperation among nations, particularly in regions with sensitive histories like Eastern Europe and the South Caucasus. By promoting healthy attitudes and democratic values, Western countries can build trust and credibility with their partners, rather than resorting to Soviet-like behavior.
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