Georgia Intel: Tbilisi Protests & Russian Pressure

On May 7, the Tbilisi City Court sentenced 10 individuals, including prominent opposition figures, to seven years in prison for their roles in the October 2025 presidential palace unrest. In a highly unusual parallel development on the same day, Georgian prosecutors arrested five security officers for brutally beating protesters during the 2024 demonstrations. These dual legal actions highlight a deeply polarized domestic environment. Additionally, on May 5, the State Security Service arrested a former Cartu Group official for espionage. Diplomatically, the government is attempting to balance its strained Western ties. US Deputy Assistant Secretary Sonata Coulter visited Tbilisi on May 7 to discuss resetting relations. Earlier, on May 4, Prime Minister Kobakhidze met with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy at the European Political Community summit in Yerevan. Economically, the National Bank of Georgia raised the refinancing rate to 8.25% on May 6, citing 5.9% inflation and Middle East logistical disruptions. For the Samgori school and international students, the most immediate operational risk stems from a severe crackdown on immigration and labor rules. Following the deportation of 103 foreigners on April 30, strict new work regulations took effect May 1, banning foreigners from working as couriers, taxi drivers, or guides without specific permits. Combined with nationwide taxi strikes and a recent landslide at the Sarpi border, the environment requires strict adherence to visa laws and contingency planning for logistical delays.

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