**Georgian President Warns of Wider Geopolitical Consequences for Europe**
In a passionate speech at the French Renaissance party rally in Paris, Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili sounded the alarm on Russia’s evolving strategy in Georgia and its potential impact on Europe. The audience listened intently as she warned that if the EU loses control over Georgia, it could have far-reaching consequences for the bloc.
**Russia’s New Hybrid Strategy**
Zurabishvili argued that President Vladimir Putin‘s all-out war in Ukraine had failed, and Russia is now experimenting with a “new strategy” in Georgia. This approach involves less direct aggression and more sophisticated tactics, such as electoral manipulation and proxy oligarchs. In Georgia’s case, she cited Bidzina Ivanishvili, a wealthy businessman who has been instrumental in shaping the country’s politics.
**A Threat to European Democracy**
The Georgian President warned that this new strategy threatens not only Georgia but also other developing democracies in Europe, such as Ukraine, Moldova, and Romania. She noted that Russia is attempting similar tactics in these countries, highlighting the need for a united front against authoritarianism.
**EU Must Stand Firm**
Zurabishvili called on the EU to take decisive action against authoritarian influences within its ranks. She urged the bloc to show that it can make decisions, have a coherent policy, and speak out against totalitarianism. The Georgian President emphasized that the EU must defend democracy on all fronts, from European institutions to the streets.
**France at the Forefront**
In a nod to France’s long history of defending democracy, Zurabishvili praised the country for its leadership in this area. She noted that France has always been at the forefront of promoting freedom and democracy, and she expressed hope that it would continue to play this role.
**Commentary**
The Georgian President’s speech highlights the complexities of Russia’s strategy in Georgia and its potential implications for Europe. Zurabishvili’s warning that the EU must stand firm against authoritarianism is timely, given the recent developments in Georgia. The country has been plagued by electoral manipulation, and the opposition has accused the government of using proxy oligarchs to consolidate power.
**Analysis**
The Georgian President’s speech also underscores the need for a united response from European democracies to Russia’s new strategy. As Zurabishvili noted, this approach threatens not only Georgia but also other countries in the region. The EU must take decisive action to prevent the erosion of democracy and the spread of authoritarianism.
In conclusion, the Georgian President’s speech serves as a wake-up call for Europe. It highlights the need for unity, cooperation, and decisive action against Russia’s evolving strategy. As Zurabishvili said, “We have to defend democracy everywhere.” The EU must respond to this challenge with courage, determination, and a commitment to defending freedom and democracy.
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