Georgian PM alleges “comical nature” of US Embassy social media comments on protests against EU accession delay

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Wednesday claimed the United States Embassy’s social media commentary on the backdrop of ongoing protests in Georgia against the Government’s suspension of European Union accession talks until 2028 had “taken on an absolutely comical nature”.

Kobakhidze was referring to posts on the Embassy’s Facebook page regarding the latest political developments in the country.

The PM said Ambassador Robin Dunnigan was now “being referred to as Robin Cardigan”, in reference to the Embassy’s posting of the  “info cards” on the topic.

Everyone in the United States is waiting for the inauguration of the new President [Donald Trump], and there is a clear attempt by the current administration to leave for the incoming administration a heavily complex legacy in Georgia”, the PM claimed.

He further alleged both the Embassy and the Ambassador were “under the influence” of the current US administration.

We have nothing personal with the current Ambassador. She is an extraordinary woman, but unfortunately, she cannot resist the influence that is exerted by the current administration. We have a great hope that the Ambassador will also be freed from this influence after January 20 [Trump’s inauguration]”, he continued.  

Kobakhidze further alleged the Embassy’s recent social media activity over domestic political matters constituted a “violation of the Vienna Convention” on diplomatic relations and would be perceived as a “green light for violence” amid ongoing rallies across the country.