Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze criticized the United National Movement (UNM) for signing a $360,000 contract with U.S. lobbying firm Nelson Mullins, claiming the deal is aimed at discrediting Georgia through "lies and slander."

Kaladze referenced past cases uncovered via FARA documents, alleging that such firms spread misinformation and even bribed EU parliamentarians to pass anti-Georgian resolutions. He warned that the new contract will follow the same pattern.

Filed with the U.S. Department of Justice, the contract outlines the firm's role in representing UNM’s interests, promoting democratic processes, and enhancing U.S.-Georgia relations. Travel costs are not included in the six-month agreement.