Levan Varshalomidze, a member of the Georgian opposition party UNM, was detained at a Kazakhstan airport at Russia’s request, according to party officials. He has since been released, but legal matters are ongoing. Varshalomidze is accused by Russia of combat involvement in Ukraine, charges the UNM refutes. His case sheds light on the geopolitical struggle between Georgia, Ukraine, and Russia.
The opposition party United National Movement (UNM) reported that Levan Varshalomidze, a politician affiliated with them, was detained at an airport in Kazakhstan while crossing the border, allegedly at Russia’s request. The UNM announced the incident to journalists on Tuesday evening, stating Varshalomidze was released by Wednesday afternoon.
Levan Antadze, head of the UNM’s Batumi branch, informed OC Media that while Varshalomidze had been released, legal processes were still underway. He expressed hope for positive developments soon. Varshalomidze previously served in high-ranking positions, including head of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara’s government from 2004-2012 and as head of Ukraine’s Investment Fund under Presidents Poroshenko and Zelenskyi.
Members of the UNM revealed a criminal case was lodged against Varshalomidze in Russia, with Moscow allegedly seeking his detention due to accusations of involvement in combat operations in Ukraine. Party member Gia Baramidze refuted these claims, emphasizing Varshalomidze’s non-involvement in military actions.
Despite the UNM’s claims, the source of the information related to the Russian request remains unspecified. However, Russian media had previously indicated that Varshalomidze was among 100 Georgian citizens under investigation for alleged mercenary activities. Tina Bokuchava, another party member, remarked on Varshalomidze’s contributions to both Georgia and Ukraine, inferring that this led to persecution by Russia.
Antadze mentioned Varshalomidze had legal representation, and both the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ukrainian officials were engaged with Kazakh authorities during his confinement. OC Media attempted to reach the Georgian Foreign Ministry for comments, but received no response by the article’s publication deadline. Varshalomidze was also an active player in Georgian politics, contesting parliamentary elections in 2020 and leading UNM leadership elections in the same year, though he was not successful.
Levan Varshalomidze’s brief detention in Kazakhstan, linked to Russian legal actions, highlights ongoing political tensions involving Georgian politicians, particularly those who have engaged with Ukraine. His release reflects international diplomatic efforts, yet legal processes continue, underlining the complex relationship between Georgia, Ukraine, and Russia. The UNM remains vocal in defending Varshalomidze’s character and contributions, amidst allegations against him.
Original Source: oc-media.org
