Levan Varshalomidze, a member of the United National Movement party, was detained in Kazakhstan at Russia’s request but was subsequently released. His detention is linked to a criminal case in Russia regarding allegations of combat involvement in Ukraine. Varshalomidze is an influential political figure with a significant history in both Georgian and Ukrainian politics.
The United National Movement (UNM) reports that Levan Varshalomidze, a member of their party, was detained at a Kazakh airport, allegedly at the request of Russian authorities. This incident was communicated to journalists on Tuesday evening, and by Wednesday afternoon, UNM’s Batumi branch head, Levan Antadze, announced Varshalomidze’s release, stating that ongoing legal processes remain unresolved.
Levan Varshalomidze is a notable figure who served as the head of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara during the UNM’s governance from 2004 to 2012 and later held significant roles in Ukraine’s government under Presidents Petro Poroshenko and Volodymyr Zelenskyi. In 2020, President Zelenskyi appointed him to lead the Investment Fund of Ukraine.
Members of the UNM reported that a criminal case had been instigated against Varshalomidze in Russia, linking his detention to Moscow’s inquiries. Party member Gia Baramidze claimed that Russia accused Varshalomidze of engaging in ‘combat operations’ in Ukraine, which Baramidze asserts are baseless accusations.
Despite the UNM not disclosing the source of information regarding the Russian request, Russian media previously noted that Varshalomidze was among a group of 100 Georgian nationals wanted by Moscow for alleged mercenary conduct. UNM member Tina Bokuchava stated, “He has done a lot for Georgia, but he has also done a lot for Ukraine, which is why he is being persecuted by Russia.”
Antadze indicated that Varshalomidze was in contact with a lawyer while the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ukrainian authorities liaised with Kazakh officials, although he did not provide further details about the release. Attempts to obtain a comment from the Georgian Foreign Ministry remained unanswered at the time of publication.
Varshalomidze has remained active in Georgian politics, serving in parliament since 2020 but declining to retain his seat post-2021 local elections amid protests against the election results. Additionally, he contended for leadership within the UNM in 2020 but was subsequently outvoted by Nika Melia.
Levan Varshalomidze’s recent detention in Kazakhstan, reportedly at Russia’s request, underscores significant geopolitical tensions and the ongoing complexities of Georgian politics. His quick release reflects the involvement of both the Georgian and Ukrainian governments. The allegations against him highlight the precarious position of individuals active in both Georgian and Ukrainian governmental spheres amid escalating Russian scrutiny. Varshalomidze’s contributions to both nations illustrate his importance in regional matters, despite the challenges he faces.
Original Source: oc-media.org
