AGP Executive Report

Deputy PM shake-up: Mamuka Mdinaradze resigned and said he is leaving politics, a move analysts frame as part of a wider power reshuffle inside the ruling circle. Protests in Tbilisi: Supporters of Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic course kept up demonstrations for the 638th straight day, with reports of pardons and arrests tied to the long-running foreign agents law fight. Tbilisi heritage under pressure: The demolition of the modernist Rike Park Music Theatre and Exhibition Hall (“Rike Tubes,” plus the Silo) sparked fresh outcry after Reuters and Civil Georgia documented the razing. Anti-annexation push: A new “Anti-Annexation Platform” was launched to oppose Russia’s occupation and de facto annexation of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali through legal, peaceful action and targeted sanctions. Regional energy talks: Armenia’s PM Nikol Pashinyan said Yerevan is considering electricity imports from Azerbaijan and also discussing options with Georgia, Iran, and Turkey. Armenia–Georgia diplomacy: Pashinyan invited Georgian PM Irakli Kobakhidze to Armenia’s COP17 Leaders’ Summit in October; Kobakhidze accepted. EUintegration context: The week also featured renewed debate around Georgia’s European path and how domestic politics is shaping that direction.

Tbilisi Modernist Row: Outrage is growing over the demolition of the “Rike Tubes” Rike Park Music Theatre and Exhibition Hall, a 2011–12 modernist complex long unused, with critics warning the city is trading skyline character for destruction. Courtroom Fight: In the Grigol Liluashvili case, his lawyer says defence witnesses from his security detail will show that Romeo Mikautadze was never with him, pushing back against claims made in court. Civic Pushback: A new “Anti-Annexation Platform” was launched in Tbilisi, pledging non-partisan, peaceful action against Russia’s occupation and de facto annexation of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali. Public Safety: Georgia’s Interior Ministry says police arrested a man in Tbilisi after a raid found illegal firearms, TNT and a grenade. Business & Investment: In Batumi, an agreement has been signed for HOLM Developments to build a 140,000 sq m multifunctional complex on Ambassadori Island, pitching it as a new FDI magnet. Regional Context: Reuters reports Bulgaria approved seven NATO minehunter ships to strengthen Black Sea security—an issue that directly intersects the wider Georgia region.

Armenian Banking Deal in Georgia: Arins Group, owned by Armenian businessman Karen Safaryan, has agreed to buy Georgia’s Terabank and the Biltmore Tbilisi hotel, pending National Bank of Georgia approval. Tbilisi Real Estate: A landmark Tbilisi building once known as the Mtkvari restaurant—now tied to the Mtkvarze nightclub—has been listed for sale for $1.25 million. Church-State Tensions in Armenia: Armenia’s PM says a report is being prepared on a “systemic crisis” in the Armenian Apostolic Church and signals possible leadership changes, escalating the standoff with the church. Regional Security Balancing: Azerbaijan’s foreign policy is described as keeping multiple doors open—trading with Russia, partnering with Turkey, and managing Iran and Israel ties at once. Georgia-US Courtroom Fallout: A Georgia federal court filing claims Flock surveillance cameras have been used for stalking, pushing a class action. Public Safety & Health: Atrium Health Navicent names Elmer Polite president for Central Georgia hospitals. Sports & Community: Georgia College & State athletics announces Steve Barsby will step down as tennis coach after 26 years.

Georgia Politics: Parliament’s autumn session is set to open Sept. 1, with the national anthem at the first plenary sitting, and lawmakers expected to consider government-structure changes, including abolishing the Ministry of Regional Development and creating new state minister roles. Rights & Censorship: The Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association says the Penitentiary Service’s refusal to allow Lasha Bugadze’s novel into a prison violates freedom of expression and international human-rights standards. High-Profile Corruption Case: Prosecutors say they have enough material to formally charge jailed ex-PM Irakli Garibashvili with taking a ₾750,000 bribe tied to Defense Ministry tenders for Gori Military Hospital supplies; Garibashvili says the case is a “political masquerade” and will skip court. Public Services: Georgia is expanding primary healthcare reform with a bigger service package, more lab and instrumental tests, and a new age-based financing model. Tourism & Economy: Geostat reports Georgia’s hotel sector grew in 2025: 2,783 hotels and hotel-type establishments, up 4.5%, with most privately owned and concentrated in Adjara and Tbilisi. Business: Arins Group-linked AGE S.A. has agreed to acquire Terabank and the Biltmore Tbilisi hotel, pending National Bank approvals. Regional Watch: UN Security Council members, including Georgia, have called for Russia to withdraw troops from Georgian regions and reverse recognition of occupied areas. Local Life: Cellfie opened a new Batumi shop and service centre, and Kakheti officials met to coordinate the 2026 grape harvest, including 24/7 operations at the Harvest Coordination Headquarters.

EU-leaning Protests in Tbilisi: Supporters of Georgia’s Euro-integration kept up a 636th straight day of demonstrations, rallying outside Parliament and the Tbilisi City Council to demand political prisoners’ release, fair elections, and a return to the Euro-Atlantic path. Former PM Garibashvili in Prison Letter: Irakli Garibashvili says his latest court case is a “political masquerade” and that he won’t attend hearings, insisting the process is driven by politics. Defense Procurement Case Update: Prosecutor Ana Lekiashvili told journalists there are currently no plea-deal negotiations underway with Juansher Burchuladze and Vasil Mkheidze. Port Growth, Logistics Pressure: Poti handled a record 404,760 TEU in the first seven months of 2026 (+7% year-on-year), with July hitting a monthly record 65,759 TEU—raising pressure on berths, yards, cranes, and transport links. Maritime Forum in Batumi: Batumi will host the Georgia International Maritime Forum (GIMF 2026) on Sept. 7–8, spotlighting regional connectivity and the Middle Corridor. Border-Migration Watch: Georgia is monitoring reports of a possible new Russian mobilization; recent Upper Lars figures show no mass exodus yet, but officials and residents remember the 2022 influx shock.

UN Diplomacy on Ukraine: More than 50 UN member states, including Georgia, backed Denmark’s call for Russia to agree to a full, immediate, unconditional ceasefire and resume peace talks, warning the war’s spillover includes airspace violations and drone incidents. US Stance: The US declined to sign the same UN appeal, urging “both sides” to avoid strikes that endanger civilian vessels instead. Georgia-Russia Border Flows: Over 113,000 people crossed the Russian-Georgian border via Verkhny Lars in one week, with reports linking the surge to rumors of a possible new mobilization. High-Level Russian Threat Claims: Dmitry Medvedev said Russia needs guarantees NATO hostile actions will stop, naming potential NATO membership for Georgia as an “existential threat.” Domestic Politics—Garibashvili: Former PM Irakli Garibashvili faces new bribery charges tied to Defense Ministry procurement, with prosecutors alleging a GEL 750,000 bribe scheme involving manipulated tenders. Opposition Pressure: Levan Khabeishvili, jailed, urged Georgia’s opposition to unite and said authorities pressure relatives to testify against each other. Energy Administration: Georgia appointed David Vardiashvili as head of the Georgian State Electrosystem, replacing Vano Zardiashvili. Maritime Focus: Batumi will host GIMF 2026 (Sept 7-8), spotlighting the Middle Corridor and regional maritime connectivity. Earthquake Report: A quake near Dmanisi was felt in Armenia’s Lori and Shirak regions.

Missing Child Case: Georgia-linked investigators say online sex ads helped locate a missing juvenile in East Point, leading to her recovery and an arrest in Fulton County. Protests in Tbilisi: On Ukraine’s Independence Day, demonstrators marked the occasion near the Ukrainian embassy and marched toward Taras Shevchenko, with police restricting parts of the route. Courtroom/Politics: Coverage highlights new corruption charges against former PM Irakli Garibashvili, with his family and lawyer calling the process political and denying any bribe. Energy & Policy: Georgia is reported to be refusing to join the EU’s latest sanctions against Iran, citing national interests, while debate continues over Georgia’s oil pivot away from Russian supply. Earthquake Watch: A magnitude 3.0 quake near Dmanisi was felt in parts of Armenia’s Shirak and Lori regions. Culture & Society: The Kvareli Foundation for Contemporary Art is set to open Oct. 31, and a new school-uniform online platform is planned for September 1.

Courtroom Update: Lawyer Mariam Gogoreliani says accused former State Security chief Grigol Liluashvili could testify at his hearing, stressing he considers himself innocent as prosecutors finish examining case materials and the defense prepares its witnesses. Anti-Corruption Push: Prosecutors have brought a new bribe-taking charge against imprisoned ex-PM Irakli Garibashvili, alleging a GEL 750,000 payoff tied to secret Defense Ministry procurements, with losses claimed up to GEL 7 million and potential 11–15 years. EU Sanctions Stance: Georgia says it will not join the EU’s latest Iran sanctions package, arguing decisions depend on whether they serve Georgia’s national interests. Public Administration: The Economy Ministry introduced Davit Vardiashvili as the new General Director of the Georgian State Electrosystem. Social Support: The Wounded Warrior Support Foundation reports GEL 561,749 in 2026 donations, funding medical help, surgeries, family support, and education for 74 beneficiaries by August. Education & Infrastructure: Tbilisi public schools are undergoing major rehabilitation, including yards, classrooms, and bathrooms ahead of the new school year. International Spotlight: UN Security Council members condemned Russia’s continued occupation of Georgia’s Abkhazia and Tskhinvali regions, urging accountability and respect for movement, education, and cultural rights.

Protest Watch: Georgia’s pro-EU demonstrators marked the 634th straight day in Tbilisi and Batumi, demanding a return to Eurointegration, new parliamentary elections, and the release of political prisoners, with organizers citing harsh dispersals and detentions. Russia-Georgia Tensions: Moscow’s Nagatinsky Court sentenced journalist Nikolai Levshits* in absentia over alleged “fakes” about the Russian army, while UN Security Council members again urged Russia to withdraw troops from Georgia and reverse recognition of occupied regions. Energy Pivot: Georgia’s Kulevi refinery is starting to shift away from Russian crude as EU sanctions tighten, with imports of Kazakh oil beginning ahead of a January 2027 deadline. Adjara Health: Adjara officials held a maternal and child health meeting, highlighting 14 targeted programs funded with over 10 million GEL. Occupied Territories: South Ossetia plans to ease crossing rules for Akhalgori Georgians, as Abkhazia continues to criticize Saakashvili’s remarks. Local Crime: Georgian police seized up to 4 kg of alpha-PVP in Tbilisi.

Georgia–EU Energy: Georgia’s Kulevi refinery is starting to shift away from Russian crude as EU sanctions raise the cost of the old supply line, with July imports of Kazakh oil marking the first step in diversifying feedstock ahead of a 2027 deadline. Protests in Tbilisi: Euro-integration supporters kept up the 633rd day of daily marches, again demanding new parliamentary elections, a return to the EU course, and the release of prisoners. Occupied Regions: South Ossetia plans to ease crossing rules for Akhalgori Georgians, while Abkhazia continues to react sharply to remarks by Mikheil Saakashvili. Diplomacy & Security: The UN Security Council urged Russia to withdraw troops from Georgia and reverse recognition of occupied regions, as Georgia’s foreign ministry reiterated concerns over the Russia–Georgia conflict. Culture & Education: “Night Serenades 2026” moved to Batumi for concerts marking violinist Liana Isakadze’s 80th anniversary, while Harvard’s Georgian Studies Program was suspended after Tbilisi refused to extend funding. Sports (Georgia-linked): Roman Dolidze’s Georgian roots were profiled, and Henry Cejudo beat Merab Dvalishvili in 36 seconds at RAF 12, sparking fresh online backlash.

Pro-European Protests in Tbilisi: Protesters marked the 633rd day of daily marches, blaming “Georgian Dream” policies for an exodus from Georgia and again demanding EU integration, new parliamentary elections, and the release of political prisoners. Harvard Georgian Studies Shut Down: Georgia’s Education Ministry says it refused to extend funding for Harvard’s Georgian Studies Program after the university failed to provide an “agreed” plan, while observers link the closure to political tensions over academic stances. Drug Bust in Tbilisi: Police seized up to 4 kg of Alpha-PVP in an operation targeting a foreign suspect accused of buying, storing, and selling the drug. Caucasus Cultural Spotlight: “Night Serenades 2026” has moved to Batumi, with concerts running Aug. 21, 23, and 25. Regional Energy Shift: Georgia’s oil imports show early diversification, including a first shipment of Kazakh crude, as EU sanctions reshape supply routes. International Diplomacy Watch: UN Security Council members urged Russia to withdraw troops from Georgia and reverse recognition of occupied regions. Local Governance & Education: Georgia is rolling out school uniform sales points nationwide starting Sept. 1, with an online platform planned.

EU Rights Push: The European Commission named a new special envoy to promote freedom of religion worldwide, warning that nearly two thirds of the world’s population live under serious violations of freedom of conscience. Harvard Funding Rift: Georgia’s Kartvelian Studies Program at Harvard’s Davis Center was suspended after Tbilisi and Harvard failed to agree on a new program plan and measurable funding framework. EU Enlargement Debate: Brussels is moving to revive enlargement, but analysts say the EU still needs to clarify decision-making, veto rights, and access to key funds for new members. EU Sanctions Line: Georgia declined to join new EU sanctions against Iran, with ruling-party lawmakers saying foreign policy follows Georgia’s national interests. Drug Crackdown in Tbilisi: Police seized up to 4 kg of Alpha-PVP in Tbilisi, arresting a foreign citizen tied to an alleged large-scale trafficking plan. Protests Continue: Pro-European demonstrators kept up daily rallies in Tbilisi and Batumi, demanding political prisoners’ release and an end to cooperation with Russia. Weather Watch: A cold front brings drier, more comfortable conditions this weekend, but heat and humidity are set to return midweek.

Rising Tensions at the UN: The UN Security Council held a closed-door meeting on Russia’s occupied Georgian territories, with European states urging Moscow to withdraw troops, reverse recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, and resume key talks. Occupied Territories & Abkhazia: Abkhazia’s de facto authorities condemned Mikheil Saakashvili’s remarks about restoring Georgian control, calling for a clear political and legal response from Tbilisi. Russophobia Dispute: Russia’s Foreign Ministry urged Georgia to investigate “Russophobic” incidents and punish those responsible, after Georgian PM Irakli Kobakhidze renewed warnings about hostility toward Russian visitors. Internal Political Fallout: Imprisoned former PM Irakli Gharibashvili released another prison letter alleging Georgian Dream officials hinted at his father’s arrest and accusing authorities of a “dirty provocation” and “inhumane trap.” Border Crossings Claim: Georgia’s Interior Ministry rejected Saakashvili’s claim that 20,000 Russians entered Georgia in a day, citing much lower Lars checkpoint figures. Sports Diplomacy: Armenia and Georgia discussed deepening cooperation in sports, including joint projects. Local Culture & Heritage: Bainbridge honored Old Post Office owner John Noel for rehabilitating the historic building into an event space and bar, winning a state preservation award.

UN Security Council: Georgia’s Foreign Ministry says the UN Security Council marked the 18th anniversary of the 2008 Russia-Georgia war in a closed session, with a joint statement from European members condemning Russia’s occupation of Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region and calling for withdrawal. Occupied Territories & Fuel: The debate over Georgia supplying fuel to Russian-occupied Abkhazia continues, with reports that AI-92 shipments under a Rosneft contract arrived but only part will be sold at stations—fuel shortages and price pressure remain central to the dispute. Court & Politics: Radio Liberty reports a Georgian court ordered former PM Nika Gilauri and his companies to pay $12 million in a private dispute, followed by seizure of shares and a forced sale of property. Education Policy: Georgia is publishing addresses for school uniform sales points nationwide, with daily hours and an online ordering platform planned; uniforms become mandatory for first-graders starting September 1. Cybersecurity: A new report describes “SilkParasite,” a China-linked cyberespionage operation using Google Drive as a command channel, with malware activity tied to government targets including Georgia. Business/Industry: Rustavi Steel has sold its rebar production line to PM Metal, as the company shifts focus amid heavy competition and import pressure. Sports (Georgia-linked): Georgia Under-21 winger Andria Bartishvili is reported to be on Liverpool and Juventus’ radar, while Georgia’s women’s soccer set an NCAA attendance record in a 6-0 win over James Madison.

Fuel & Trade: Georgia’s fuel imports from Azerbaijan jumped in January–July 2026, reaching 90,100 tons worth $88 million—up 131.1% year-on-year—while overall petroleum imports rose in both volume and value. Education Policy: Georgia’s school uniform rollout starts Sept. 1, with at least one in-person sales point in every city and municipality and an online ordering platform; prices were set ahead of the 2026–2027 mandatory phase for first-graders. Abkhazia & Russia Pressure: Russia’s foreign ministry urged Georgian authorities to protect Russian citizens and said any move to restore ties must come from Georgia; separately, Russia cut the Russian citizenship fee for residents of occupied Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Politics & Legal Fight: Imprisoned ex-PM Irakli Garibashvili published another open letter alleging pressure and threats involving his family, while Regional Development Minister Mamuka Mdinaradze declined to comment on the claims. Culture & Film: The Georgian National Film Center denied blocking its “Tear Gas” screening at Locarno, saying it did not grant consent because the final version was never submitted.

Fuel to Abkhazia: PM Irakli Kobakhidze says the government approved about 680 tonnes of fuel shipments to occupied Abkhazia via Solidus under Georgia’s occupation law, calling it aimed at “restoration of trust” and denying links to Russian military use. Border Numbers: Georgia’s Interior Ministry rejects Russian claims of 20,000 people crossing Larsi in one day, saying 7,880 entered from Russia in 24 hours and 8,406 left. Tourism Flow: Upper Lars saw nearly 20,000 crossings daily on Aug. 15-16 amid peak seasonal travel, with customs adding staff to speed processing. Local Security: Adjara opened new modern police buildings in Kobuleti and Keda, including accessible facilities and upgraded equipment. Film Industry Tensions: Georgian director Ana Urushadze says the national film sector is in a “dead-end situation” as filmmakers boycott the National Film Center over censorship concerns. Pro-European Protests: Demonstrators marked 630 days of continuous protests in Tbilisi, again demanding political prisoners’ release and free elections. Armenia’s Balancing: Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan says EAEU leaders’ referendum comments on EU membership were a “friendly gesture,” stressing multi-vector foreign policy.