Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili condemned a recent BBC report alleging the use of a WW1-era toxic compound on protesters, calling it “completely unverified” and harmful to the country. He drew parallels to past media coverage of former President Saakashvili, accusing outlets like the BBC and CNN of creating coordinated disinformation campaigns.

Kavelashvili questioned the credibility of sources, including paediatrician Konstantine Chakhunashvili, and called on law enforcement to investigate who is behind the “coordinated actions” of media, NGOs, and political actors.

In response, Georgian Dream announced plans to take legal action against the BBC internationally, while the State Security Service of Georgia has launched its own investigation into the reporting.