**Georgia on the Brink: Russia Accuses UK of Plotting to Remove Georgian Dream from Power**
A shocking allegation has emerged from Moscow, claiming that the United Kingdom intends to remove Georgia’s ruling party, Georgian Dream, from power. According to a report by Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR), London believes this move will “shake up” the opposition and give it a “second wind” to challenge the current government.
The SVR’s claim has been met with skepticism in Tbilisi, where tensions between the ruling party and Western embassies have been escalating. Georgian Dream Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili recently lashed out at some Western diplomats, accusing them of interfering in the country’s domestic politics and lecturing them about the Vienna Convention.
In a Facebook post, Papuashvili specifically mentioned the British Ambassador, saying they had “violated international law with attacks on the Georgian people and Georgia’s government.” This outburst comes amidst growing tensions between the ruling party and Western countries, which have been critical of Georgia’s democratic record and human rights issues.
Meanwhile, U.S. Ambassador to Georgia Robin Dunnigan announced her retirement, citing personal reasons. However, this move has raised eyebrows in Tbilisi, where some see it as a sign of increased diplomatic tension between the United States and Georgia’s ruling party.
**U.S. Embassy Retiree**
In a statement on June 5, Dunnigan said she had decided to retire after 33 years of service as a diplomat. Her departure is set for July, leaving many wondering what impact this might have on Georgia-U.S. relations.
While the reasons behind her retirement remain unclear, some speculate that it may be connected to growing tensions between Washington and Tbilisi over issues like democratic backsliding and human rights abuses. Dunnigan’s tenure has been marked by efforts to strengthen ties with Georgia, but these efforts appear to have faltered in recent times.
**NATO Ties Tested**
The ruling party also attended a meeting of the Ramstein Group at NATO headquarters in Brussels on June 4. Paata Patiashvili, the first deputy defense minister, represented Georgian Dream at the gathering, which brought together defense ministers and senior officials from NATO member and partner countries.
However, Defense Minister Irakli Chikovani did not attend, sparking speculation about potential disagreements within the ruling party on issues like NATO membership. Georgia’s bid to join the alliance has been a contentious topic in recent times, with some critics arguing that it may compromise the country’s sovereignty.
**Growing Pressure on Activists**
In related news, activist Lekso Samkharadze claims that Georgian Dream MP Davit Matikashvili has filed a complaint against him following a June 2 protest. During this event, Samkharadze sang an anti-government chant at the GD lawmaker, sparking outrage among pro-ruling party groups.
This incident adds to a growing pattern of administrative charges being brought against women who have allegedly insulted Georgian Dream MPs in separate incidents. As tensions between activists and the ruling party continue to escalate, fears are growing about the impact this might have on Georgia’s democratic record and human rights situation.
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