“It is good that the State Security Service has immediately launched an investigation into the BBC investigation piece,” said Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili.

According to her, it is essential to analyse why such attacks against Georgia are occurring.

“Before examining the content, we must consider the fact itself, why such brutal attacks on Georgia are being carried out, involving all actors. International media are involved in these efforts, and in this instance, we observe the BBC being particularly active. This is not the first accusation levelled at our country, nor will it be the last one that is baseless and damages our nation’s reputation. These campaigns have a very troubling aim, linked to the stability of our country. It is concerning that supposedly reliable sources are being used to spread disinformation.

All such actions targeting our national interests must be met with a suitable and decisive response. It is very positive that the State Security Service has swiftly initiated an investigation into this matter. Our society needs to know what is happening and who is behind these actions. Of course, we have seen numerous campaigns against Georgia in recent years. However, we require a more in-depth investigation to identify the actors responsible and to understand who is involved in undermining Georgia’s national interests,” Botchorishvili stated.

For context: The BBC has recently published an investigative report titled: WW1 toxic compound sprayed on Georgian protesters, BBC evidence suggests. The BBC alleges the use of chemical weapons from the First World War, citing paediatrician Konstantine Chakhunashvili, former head of the Special Task Force Lasha Shergelashvili, and expert Prof Christopher Holstege as sources.

Respondents also include Eka Gigauri and Giorgi Bachiashvili. In the report, Lasha Shergelashvili states that, “in his opinion, this is the same substance he was asked to test for in a water cannon in 2009.” Furthermore, the BBC states that “the Georgian authorities said our investigation findings were ‘absurd’ and the police had acted legally in response to the ‘illegal actions of brutal criminals’”.