Mikheil Kavelashvili has compared the impact of natural disasters to war, emphasizing that during such crises, the spread of disinformation is completely unacceptable. Speaking to journalists in Kobuleti, Kavelashvili stated, “No one is immune to natural disasters, and the most important thing is how we respond in their aftermath.”
During his visit to Adjara, Kavelashvili attended a meeting of the Coordination Headquarters, where the Chairman of the Adjara Government, Tornike Rizhvadze, provided updates on the current situation. He noted that conditions in Adjara had significantly improved, with better weather and substantial progress in restoration efforts.
“I am confident that in a few days, nearly everything will be fully restored. Only a few locations remain where road cleaning is ongoing. Roads in all administrative centers have been cleared, and 80-90% of electricity has been restored. There are still some areas in Kobuleti without power, but work is continuing. The key point is that no one is entirely safe from such disasters, and what truly matters is how we respond afterward,” Kavelashvili stated.
He also highlighted the involvement of high-ranking officials, including the Prime Minister, the Minister of Infrastructure, and the Ministers of Internal Affairs and Defense, in the response efforts. Expressing his gratitude, he commended rescuers, firefighters, and military personnel for their round-the-clock efforts. While their assistance is no longer required in Adjara, he noted that their support would be crucial in Guria and Imereti.
Kavelashvili stressed the importance of coordinated efforts to ensure that no citizen is left without assistance. “This is a security issue. When a disaster strikes a country, it is comparable to war. Unfortunately, some individuals use these situations to spread disinformation, which is entirely unacceptable. Everyone should be aware that full mobilization is in place, and efforts will continue throughout this period. Officials and workers on the ground are doing everything within their power to address the crisis,” he said.
He also addressed what he described as politically motivated attempts to undermine government efforts. “I shouldn’t have to speak about this as a president, but the level of disinformation is so blatant that it directly harms the situation. Some are trying to create the impression that the government is doing nothing, which is simply not true. I urge the public not to fall for such narratives. It is crucial that we support each other in times of crisis—this is something even a child understands.”
Kavelashvili criticized his predecessor Salome Zurabishvili for making claims that, in his view, only serve to sow doubt and panic. “It is unacceptable to use a natural disaster to declare that the government does not exist. I encourage the public to be skeptical of such claims and instead listen to those who are directly responsible for handling the crisis and leading the country’s recovery efforts. Our focus should remain on resolving real issues, not reacting to baseless accusations,” he concluded.
