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

Levan Varshalomidze, a member of the opposition United National Movement, was detained in Kazakhstan based on a Russian request but has since been released. The UNM claims that allegations from Russia regarding Varshalomidze’s involvement in military activities in Ukraine are false. Legal proceedings are still ongoing, and communication involving relevant authorities is in progress.

The opposition party United National Movement (UNM) reported that one of its politicians, Levan Varshalomidze, was detained at a Kazakhstan airport while attempting to cross the border. The party asserted that this was due to a request from Russia. Varshalomidze was released by Wednesday afternoon, although legal proceedings remain ongoing according to Levan Antadze, head of the party’s Batumi branch.

Varshalomidze served as head of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara under UNM governance from 2004 to 2012 and held several positions in Ukraine during the terms of Presidents Petro Poroshenko and Volodymyr Zelenskyi, who appointed him to lead the Investment Fund in 2020. UNM members indicated that a criminal case had been initiated against him in Russia, citing accusations from Moscow over his supposed participation in military operations in Ukraine, a claim the party vehemently denies.

Gia Baramidze, a party member, stated that Varshalomidze contributed significantly to Ukraine’s efforts but did not engage in combat himself. The UNM has not disclosed the source of their information regarding the Russian request, however, Russian media has alleged that he is among individuals wanted for supposed mercenary activities.

Tina Bokuchava emphasized Varshalomidze’s contributions to both Georgia and Ukraine as the reason behind Russia’s persecution. Antadze confirmed that Varshalomidze has secured legal representation and that communications were ongoing with Kazakh authorities involving both the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ukrainian government. Efforts to obtain comments from the Georgian Foreign Ministry went unanswered as of publication.

In recent history, Varshalomidze has remained active in Georgian politics, holding a parliamentary seat during the 2020 elections. However, he opted not to retain his position following the controversial 2021 local election results. He also contested the leadership of UNM in 2020 but was defeated by Nika Melia.

In summary, Levan Varshalomidze of the United National Movement was detained in Kazakhstan due to a Russian request, as alleged by the party, and subsequently released. His involvement in various political roles in both Georgia and Ukraine has led to accusations from Moscow that the UNM disputes. The situation underscores ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine and the associated risks faced by individuals involved in the regions’ political landscapes.

Original Source: oc-media.org