Former Georgian Prime Minister Nika Gilauri has denounced the country's recent parliamentary elections as fraudulent, influenced heavily by Russia.

The legitimacy of these elections has been questioned, sparking protests and hindering Georgia's integration into the European Union, as Fox News reports.

Gilauri, who served as prime minister from 2009 to 2012, criticized the elections for being rigged and deemed the current parliament illegitimate.

The pro-Russia Georgian Dream party, which emerged victorious, has faced nearly a month of protests in frigid temperatures. According to Gilauri, Russian President Vladimir Putin has endorsed the Georgian government’s opposition to European integration.

Widespread Protests Triggered by Election Outcomes

Following the contested election results, Georgia has witnessed extensive protests. The opposition demands transparency and justice amid international scrutiny.

Over 460 individuals have been detained since the protests began on Nov. 29, as reported by Amnesty International, with numerous allegations of severe mistreatment.

The domestic turmoil has significantly influenced Georgia’s political landscape and its international relations.

Russian Interference in Georgian Politics

Gilauri accuses Russia of interfering in the political systems of Georgia and other neighboring countries, including Romania, Moldova, and Ukraine. He described this pattern as orchestrated and similar to strategies previously implemented in Moscow.

This accusation suggests a strategic Russian effort to curb the expansion of Western influence in Eastern Europe through the European Union and NATO.

The resonance of Gilauri's accusations adds weight to the concerns regarding Russian meddling in Georgian affairs.

Responses from Government and Opposition

The Georgian Dream party asserts a 54% victory in the elections, contradicting opposition claims. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze framed the election as a pivotal choice for the nation's future.

Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili, nearing the end of her term, has become a pivotal figure in the protests, advocating for new elections to resolve the political crisis.

She has expressed her readiness to discuss the scheduling of new elections, aiming for a resolution by December 29.

Global Reactions and Measures

The European Union paused Georgia's integration efforts following the passing of a controversial "foreign agent" law, which has been criticized for restricting civil liberties and the freedom of the press.

The United States has also responded by imposing sanctions and halting aid, signaling its disapproval of Georgia's recent political decisions and encouraging a return to democratic norms.

Western observers and organizations like the OSCE have validated concerns about election irregularities, supporting the accusations of fraud and external influence.

Georgia's Political Future at Stake

Georgia stands at a critical juncture, deciding between aligning with Western democratic standards or falling under increased Russian influence.

The resolution of this crisis will have significant implications for regional power dynamics as Georgia navigates its political and democratic future.

The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, looking for signs of stability and democratic integrity in the coming weeks.