“In 2011-2012, Donald Trump characterized Georgia and me as an ideal example for the world and praised me as number one in the fight against corruption,” jailed ex-president Mikheil Saakashvili addressed the court via video link during his trial.

Saakashvili emphasized that Donald Trump is not known for changing his stances.

“Let us reflect on what Donald Trump said about Georgia and my presidency during that period. He referred to me as a true ideal, exemplary for the world, and the leading economic reformer—number one in the fight against corruption. Trump even joked that it was fortunate I could not run for the presidency; otherwise, I would be a competitor.”

“While he was joking, these remarks came from the current President of the United States, who is not known for changing his outlooks,” Saakashvili added.

The ex-president accused certain individuals of attempting to punish him for what Trump once praised him for while suggesting that another faction is trying to silence him.

“You will succeed in neither effort. You can continue to attempt to destroy me physically, but you will not break my spirit. I will fight against this regime until the end—for victory and Georgia’s liberation. Our nation needs a movement for national liberation. It is already in motion, and dedicated youth are bringing forth great ideas,” he declared.