Khoshtaria: U.S. Engagement is a Positive Sign of Pressure on the Regime
By Messenger Staff
Monday, April 6, 2026
From her place of detention, Elene Khoshtaria, leader of the Droa party, has commented on the recent phone call between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Georgian Dream Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze. In a letter released on Friday, April 3, 2026, Khoshtaria argued that despite potential concerns from the opposition, increased American engagement is a strategic win for Georgia's democratic forces.
Khoshtaria addressed the legitimate questions regarding whether such a high-level call constitutes a recognition of the current government's legitimacy. She drew a sharp diplomatic distinction, noting that while an official visit to Washington would imply recognition, a phone call serves as a working message from a global power.
"A phone call from the U.S. Secretary of State to Kobakhidze requires clarification from us, the opposition. It may raise legitimate questions about recognition and the relevance of the democratic agenda. However, if we look at the context, this call is a positive sign for us-for Georgia, not for Russia," she wrote.
The letter emphasized that the United States is increasingly focused on counteracting Russian and Iranian influence in the South Caucasus. Khoshtaria pointed to recent actions and studies by the Hudson Institute as evidence that Georgia's democratic health is now viewed by Washington as a key component of regional stability.
"Greater U.S. engagement reflects an expression of interest toward Georgia, where addressing the Russian factor will be an unavoidable element. This is not only in our interest but also in that of the United States. U.S. inaction would give the regime more room for boldness," she warned. She argued that parallel communication with both the government and the opposition ensures that the Russian factor remains an unavoidable part of the bilateral agenda.
Khoshtaria concluded her letter by urging the Georgian public and the opposition to stay active, specifically highlighting the importance of the nationwide mobilization planned for May 26.
"The role of protests and the opposition becomes even more important now. The initiative for nationwide mobilization culminating on May 26 is timely and appropriate in this regard. Demand accountability and answers from the opposition on all issues-do not give us the luxury of making mistakes. Until the end! Long live independent Georgia!" the letter states.
