The Colour Revolutions
Post-Soviet uprisings in the early 21st century known as "colour revolutions."
Non-violent, democratic protests aimed at replacing pro-Moscow governments with pro-West governments.
Prominent examples: Georgia’s Rose Revolution (2003), Ukraine’s Orange Revolution (2004), Kyrgyzstan’s Tulip Revolution (2005).
Received support from Western governments and organizations like the National Endowment for Democracy (NED).
Russia’s Perspective
Russia viewed these uprisings as threats to its regional influence.
Perceived as Western-backed destabilization efforts to weaken Russia's sphere of influence.
Concern that these revolutions could inspire similar movements within Russia.
Failures of the Revolutions
Colour revolutions failed to deliver promised democratic reforms and stability.
New governments often ended up being as corrupt as the ones they replaced.
Public frustration grew as expectations of improvement were unmet.
Georgia's Rose Revolution 2.0
Georgia’s Rose Revolution initially seen as a win for democracy, led by Mikheil Saakashvili.
Over time, Saakashvili’s regime became associated with corruption and undemocratic practices.
Recent elections in Georgia have led to protests, with claims of external interference and corruption.
Georgia’s struggle with balancing Western and Russian influences continues.
Georgia’s Geopolitical Importance
Located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgia is a key battleground for geopolitical struggles.
Its political future is shaped by competition between Western and Russian influences.
Georgia is navigating external pressures from both East and West, highlighting the broader challenges faced by post-Soviet states in a shifting geopolitical landscape.
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