**Artists Demand Release of Detained Colleagues**
A performance rally was held near the Vaso Abashidze New Theatre in central Tbilisi. Artists are demanding the release of individuals who were illegally detained during protests, including their colleague Andro Chichinadze. They also want new elections to be held.
The artists plan to travel to different regions of Georgia to inform citizens about the current situation in the country. According to film director David Doiashvili, this is part of a broader effort to raise awareness and mobilize people.
**TV Owner Unconcerned About Sanctions**
Irakli Rukhadze, owner of government-affiliated Imedi TV, said he is not worried about sanctions. He stated that his main goal is to prevent the United National Movement (UNM) from regaining power, even in a coalition with other parties.
Rukhadze also claimed that the EU and US are obstructing the Georgian Dream government from investigating alleged “four revolutions” in two years. He suggested that there is a concerted effort to damage the Georgian economy and pave the way for a change in government.
**Trial of Former Fund Head**
Giorgi Bachiashvili, former head of Bidzina Ivanishvili’s co-investment fund, was tried on January 23. During the hearing, he alleged that Ivanishvili sent a mediator to demand monthly payments in cryptocurrency in exchange for an end to criminal prosecution.
Bachiashvili faces charges related to misappropriating cryptocurrency and laundering income. He could face 9-12 years in prison if found guilty.
**Civil Society Organizations Condemn Sanctions**
Representatives of civil society organizations (CSOs) have criticized what they call the “unjustified use of sanctions”. They describe these measures as a tool of repression, arguing that they are undemocratic and designed to stifle dissent. The CSOs also called on judges reviewing administrative cases not to participate in what they see as an oligarchic punitive operation.
**International Support for Georgia**
The Estonian Parliament adopted a statement in support of the people of Georgia on January 22. The statement recognizes Salome Zurabishvili as the country’s legitimate President and does not recognize the results of the “fraudulent” elections in Georgia.
UK Ambassador Gareth Ward outlined the UK’s position on the unfolding crisis in Georgia, saying that current measures are aimed at supporting freedom of expression and other fundamental freedoms. The British government has avoided discussing future sanctions.
**Zurabishvili Discusses US Engagement**
President Salome Zurabishvili argued that the former U.S. administration’s “lack of engagement” with Georgia may have encouraged Russia to advance its interests in the country. She suggested that this lack of engagement might have emboldened Russia to be more proactive in the region.
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