UNM Politician Levan Varshalomidze Detained in Kazakhstan at Russia’s Request

Levan Varshalomidze, a UNM politician, was briefly detained in Kazakhstan at Russia’s alleged request. He was released, but legal issues persist. Varshalomidze has a notable political history in Georgia and Ukraine, and the UNM alleges his detention relates to false accusations from Russia regarding military involvement in Ukraine.

Levan Varshalomidze, a politician associated with the opposition party United National Movement (UNM), was briefly detained at an airport in Kazakhstan. The UNM alleged that this detainment was executed at Russia’s request. News regarding Varshalomidze’s detention was communicated to journalists on Tuesday evening, and by Wednesday afternoon, Levan Antadze, head of the UNM’s Batumi branch, confirmed that he had been released but noted that legal processes were still ongoing.

Varshalomidze previously served as the head of government for the Autonomous Republic of Adjara during the UNM’s governance from 2004 to 2012. Furthermore, he held various governmental roles in Ukraine under the presidencies of Petro Poroshenko and Volodymyr Zelenskyi and was appointed by Zelenskyi in 2020 to lead the country’s Investment Fund.

Members of the UNM reported that a criminal case had been opened against Varshalomidze in Russia, claiming that his detainment in Kazakhstan stemmed from a request made by the Kremlin. Gia Baramidze, a fellow party member, stated to TV Pirveli that Russia accused Varshalomidze of engaging in “combat operations” in Ukraine, which he firmly refuted. Baramidze clarified that Varshalomidze contributed significantly to Ukraine as the head of the investment council without partaking in any military activities.

The UNM did not disclose the source of their information regarding the allegations from Russia. However, prior reports from Russian media indicated that Varshalomidze was among a list of 100 Georgian nationals subject to search warrants due to alleged mercenary activities. Tina Bokuchava, commenting on Varshalomidze’s character, asserted that he has made substantial contributions to both Georgia and Ukraine, leading to his persecution by Russia.

Levan Antadze confirmed that Varshalomidze’s legal matters were being handled with involvement from both the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ukrainian authorities in communication with Kazakhstan. The specific logistics surrounding his release remain unspecified. OC Media also sought comments from the Georgian Foreign Ministry but did not receive a response by the publication deadline.

Varshalomidze has remained active in Georgian politics, joining parliament in 2020. However, he chose to relinquish his seat following the controversial local election results in 2021, protesting the election’s official declarations. He also contested the UNM leadership election in 2020 but was not successful against Nika Melia.

The article reports on the brief detention of Levan Varshalomidze, a UNM member, in Kazakhstan at the alleged request of Russia. Following his release, legal proceedings are ongoing. Varshalomidze’s background as a key political figure in Georgia and Ukraine, alongside accusations against him from Russia, highlights the political complexities he navigates. The UNM continues its efforts to support him amidst ongoing legal discussions and international involvement.

Original Source: oc-media.org