Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze responded to media reports alleging that former employees of the USAID mission in Georgia received pension funds to finance radicalisation.

Kaladze stated that there are numerous attempts to introduce illicit money into the country, but emphasised that the relevant agencies are diligently overseeing all activities.

“Our agencies are working across all fronts. There are many attempts to bring illicit money into Georgia. Initially, they used non-governmental organisations, then universities, and now they are targeting individuals. They attempt to disguise these activities with various trivial pretences, claiming they are awarding pensions or honours to former employees. Nothing will go unnoticed; the relevant agencies will respond to all such attempts,” said Kakha Kaladze.