Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has spoken out against the spread of anti-Russian rhetoric within the country. He stated that the authorities intend to prevent such sentiments—which he links to the radical wing of the opposition—from taking root in Georgian society.
"Russophobia, like any form of xenophobia, is not characteristic of Georgians. Historically, we are renowned for our hospitality and tolerance toward foreigners," the politician said in an interview with the Rustavi-2 TV channel.
The Prime Minister also warned of the potential consequences of politicizing the anti-Russian agenda. In his assessment, further stoking such sentiments could heighten internal tensions and create additional economic risks.
At the same time, according to Kobakhidze, Tbilisi has no intention of abandoning its established course regarding relations with Moscow. The government plans to maintain a pragmatic approach while remaining principled on matters of national interest.
Kobakhidze has previously spoken of the need to distinguish historical disagreements and past errors from relations between peoples. He emphasized that events of the past should not become a pretext for perpetual hostility between Georgians and Russians.
Furthermore, in early August, the Georgian Prime Minister stated that the country welcomes tourists from all nations, including Russia; he made these remarks while addressing online reports alleging that Georgians treat Russian tourists poorly.
He stated that a campaign is being waged on social media to create the false impression that Russians are unwelcome in Georgia. The politician believes this effort is coordinated "from a certain country," while the campaign is "picked up by local agents" within Georgia.
"Non-existent people are discussing a supposedly negative atmosphere for Russian tourists in Georgia. The goal of all this is to sabotage the country." "Of course, our country is open to everyone—to tourists of all kinds. We will do everything to ensure that every guest feels safe and comfortable in Georgia," Kobakhidze told reporters at the time.
On August 5, Georgia’s State Security Service (SSS) opened a criminal case regarding sabotage in connection with reports of Russophobia in the country. A press release posted on the agency’s Facebook page stated that users of the social network X, operating from fake accounts, had begun claiming that Russian tourists in Georgia were allegedly being abandoned in forests and served spoiled food in restaurants. The SSS concluded that this campaign was damaging Georgia’s national interests and economy.
