**Georgia’s Leader in Exile: A Fight for Existence**
In a rare interview with CNN Prima NEWS, Salome Zurabishvili, the fifth President of Georgia, painted a dire picture of her country’s situation. Describing it as an “existential struggle,” she emphasized that the current crisis is far from being just another political disagreement.
According to Zurabishvili, the protests in Georgia have been ongoing for over two years, starting with demonstrations against Russia’s laws. The former president stressed that this is not merely a domestic issue but has broader implications for regional and global politics.
“The people of Georgia are not giving up because this struggle concerns their future,” she said. “We are fighting for the very existence of our state.”
**A Crisis of Legitimacy**
Zurabishvili’s words reflect the deepening legitimacy crisis in Georgia. As a former head of state, she acknowledges that her role is largely symbolic at present. However, she continues to use this platform to unite the opposition and serve as a voice for those protesting on the streets.
The current political climate in Georgia has led to the erosion of independence within state institutions, with Zurabishvili labeling them “partisan bodies.” She sees herself as the last line of continuity, trying to mobilize support from both within and outside the country.
**Regional and Global Implications**
Zurabishvili’s analysis extends beyond Georgia’s borders. According to her, the events unfolding in the Caucasus region pose a broader challenge for democratic partners, including the United States and Europe. This challenge isn’t isolated; it affects the entire Black Sea region and Central Asia.
Russia’s actions are seen as a strategic attempt to undermine stability in the region. Zurabishvili emphasized that despite its current weakness, Russia is creating a larger problem by eroding trust and democratic values.
**International Response**
The former president expressed disappointment with the lack of consistent political response from the West. Despite significant investments aimed at building state institutions and fostering democracy in Georgia, these efforts are being undermined without clear condemnation or support.
“Europe and the United States invested heavily in us to build a safe and reliable partner for both regions,” Zurabishvili noted. “All this suddenly disappears without anyone reacting consistently and politically.”
This lack of response has left a vacuum, allowing Russia’s actions to go unchecked. It remains to be seen how the international community will address these challenges moving forward.
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