Mayor of Tbilisi accused the European Union of applying "double standards" by increasing natural gas purchases from Russia while calling on Georgia to impose sanctions on Moscow and cut trade ties.

"This is a clear case of double standards. A very good example of how the EU should not act. We are told that we should cut all trade ties with Russia, impose sanctions on it. We know very well that this will not hurt Russia in any way, but it will harm our own country, our people, and families and individuals who work around the clock and do everything they can to provide for their families.

Of course, these demands were deliberately made to harm the Georgian economy. But we act in the interests of our country, and we must do everything we can to take steps that will primarily benefit our country, our people and our national interests.

Look at the various European countries and their trade relations with Russia. Look at the figures from recent years, since the Russia-Ukraine war began and since we were being urged to cut trade relations. Look at how they themselves have continued doing all of this. It is shameful", - said Kakha Kaladze.