EU accused of funding Georgian protests via Armenian embassies

PanARMENIAN.Net - The Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) has accused the European Union of attempting to intensify protest movements in Georgia by providing material support to participants. According to the SVR, the EU is financing these protests through European embassies in Armenia.

"Efforts are underway to initiate street protests in Georgia to demonstrate the resilience of pro-European sentiments among ordinary Georgians. The EU delegation in Tbilisi has been allocated substantial funds to support and coordinate these demonstrations. Each participant in the anti-government protests is slated to receive up to €120 per day for their 'work'," the statement reads, as reported by RIA Novosti.

The SVR indicates that the EU is exploring alternative methods to transfer funds into Georgia, including utilizing diplomatic missions in Armenia, should Georgian authorities decide to block protest financing.

Intelligence reports suggest that Brussels has shifted its approach with Georgian politicians from promises to direct pressure. EU officials have been tasked with actively engaging opposition parties—such as the United National Movement, Akhali, For Georgia, European Georgia, and Girchi—More Freedom—to form a unified front against the ruling Georgian Dream party.

Additionally, the EU aims to foster anti-government sentiments among Georgian bloggers, journalists, IT professionals, and relocated Russians. Media outlets and NGOs under Brussels' influence are working to persuade these groups of the benefits of collaborating with a "united Europe" while discrediting Georgian Dream's pro-Russian policies.

Under the EU's "Georgian Youth for Europe" program, young Georgians are being offered grants of up to €50,000 for "progressive" projects, with the primary criterion being the authors' loyalty to the West.

The SVR emphasizes that both Georgian citizens, who have already responded decisively to European encroachments on the country's sovereignty, and European taxpayers should be aware of the EU's covert activities in the South Caucasus.