Imedi: Anti-Georgian Network Disguised as Media in Interests of Foreign Intelligence Services

On November 23, a program on the pro-government Georgian television channel Imedi TV made numerous accusations against leading online media outlets covering events in the country. It was noted that they are engaged in the "systematic dissemination of disinformation," acting as a "network" in the interests of "foreign intelligence services," and are also attempting to obtain funding illegally.

The program focused on 22 media platforms, including OC Media, which is behind the "Lights Must Stay On" crowdfunding campaign launched in August after the ruling party passed laws restricting foreign media funding. Host Irakli Chikhladze described these media outlets as "an anti-Georgian network disguised as media and serving foreign intelligence services against Georgia." He also hinted at possible interest from the Georgian State Security Service (SSG).

Following the broadcast, leaders of the ruling Georgian Dream party, including Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze and Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze, harshly criticized independent online media.

"Everyone can see how certain organizations, financed by a specific foreign source, are acting in a coordinated manner to hinder the development of our country," Kobakhidze stated on November 24.

It should be noted that the media platforms targeted by Imedi TV's criticism denied the accusations, citing a lack of evidence. OC Media co-founder Mariam Nikuradze described the program's claims as "yet another propaganda attempt aimed at inciting hatred against independent media in Georgia."

Последние новости
Armenian Prime Minister Does Not Rule Out International Court Over Railway Dispute with Russia
Politics
Armenian Prime Minister Does Not Rule Out International Court Over Railway Dispute with Russia
30 July 2026

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has said Yerevan does not rule out taking its dispute with Russia over the management of the South Caucasus Railway to an international court if the issue cannot be resolved through negotiations. At the same time, he stressed that the Armenian authorities hope to settle the matter through talks.

Circassian Youth from Syria and Turkey Hold First Joint Meeting in Damascus Since Change of Power
Society
Circassian Youth from Syria and Turkey Hold First Joint Meeting in Damascus Since Change of Power
30 July 2026

Circassian youth from Syria and Turkey have held their first international gathering in Damascus since the change of power in the country, bringing together young members of the diaspora to strengthen cultural ties, foster dialogue, and discuss future cooperation.

Georgia Denies International Protection to 17 Ukrainians, Who Now Face Possible Deportation
Human rights
Georgia Denies International Protection to 17 Ukrainians, Who Now Face Possible Deportation
30 July 2026

Georgian authorities have denied international protection to 17 Ukrainian citizens who have spent nearly a year in the basement of the Dariali border crossing point (Upper Lars) on the Georgia–Russia border. Once the decisions take legal effect, they could be deported at any moment.

Fuel Crisis Reaches Abkhazia as Long Queues Form at Petrol Stations
Economy
Fuel Crisis Reaches Abkhazia as Long Queues Form at Petrol Stations
30 July 2026

Abkhazia is facing a sharp deterioration in its fuel supply, with long queues forming at major petrol stations in Sukhumi and other towns. Some filling stations have introduced a limit of 20 litres of petrol per vehicle. The de facto authorities acknowledge supply disruptions but insist they are temporary.