Statement Regarding Saakashvili from Ukraine

The advisor to the Chief of Staff of the President of Ukraine, Mykhailo Podolyak, announced that the transfer of Mikheil Saakashvili to Ukraine or a third country is crucial for Georgia's reputation.

In an interview with the 'Pirveli' TV channel, Mykhailo Podolyak emphasized that it is important for Georgia, as a sovereign state, for Mikheil Saakashvili to leave the correctional facility. According to him, it is necessary for the former president to return to Ukraine or be transferred to a neutral third country.

Podolyak pointed out that Saakashvili is a citizen of Ukraine, which makes this issue a priority for them. He urged for a dialogue based on mutual respect instead of heightened tensions in the informational field.

The advisor stated that Kyiv is interested in deepening its relations with partners. From a humanitarian and historical perspective, Podolyak proposed an interim solution where Saakashvili would be transferred to a neutral country for long-term medical treatment.

He added that Saakashvili's imprisonment is not only a problem for Georgia but also for Russia and specifically for Putin, who is aggressive towards his opponents. According to Podolyak, the step to release Saakashvili would allow Georgia to avoid this issue and contribute to warming relations with Ukraine and European countries.