In Chechnya, Akhmad and Salakh Khaskhanov—brothers of Arbi Khaskhanov, who escaped from a military base in Khankala to avoid being sent to fight in the war against Ukraine—have been abducted. This was reported by the outlet *Kavkaz.Realii*, citing human rights defender Roza Dunaeva, who represents Ichkeria in Austria. According to her, the relatives are being held in an effort to force the young man himself to return to the republic.
Speaker of the Georgian Parliament Shalva Papuashvili accused European leaders of using relations with Georgia as a political tool, leading to the current tensions.
"We are not happy with this. This situation must change," he said, calling on the EU to respect democracy and the rule of law.
Papuashvili reminded Brussels of its losses in international courts, where attempts to interfere in Georgia's affairs proved futile. He demanded an end to "political propaganda" and disinformation, emphasizing that only respect for the Georgian people and their choice can rectify the situation.
"Partnership is impossible where political narratives dominate instead of the truth. If the European Union truly wants to improve relations with Georgia, the path is simple: respect the Georgian people, respect their democratic choice, and respect the values that are called European. “There is simply no other way,” Papuashvili concluded.