The Duran Podcast Weaponizing & Destabilizing Caucasus w/ Lasha Kasradze (Live)
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Jul 22, 2025 Lasha Kasradze, an international relations analyst specializing in the South Caucasus, discusses the region's complex geopolitical dynamics. He critiques Western narratives about Georgia while exploring its aspirations for closer ties with Western institutions. Kasradze highlights the intricate relationships among Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Armenia, addressing the influence of major powers like Russia and Turkey. The conversation also examines the negative impact of NGOs on democracy and questions NATO's motivations for expanding into the Caucasus, amid rising tensions and misinformation.
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Georgia's Political Stability Misunderstood
- Georgia under the current government is stable and more democratic despite flaws.
- Western claims of it being pro-Russian or undemocratic are false narratives born from frustration.
Georgia's Prudent Regional Strategy
- Georgia avoids the regional strategic divide and balances relations prudently.
- Alarmist narratives about Georgia choosing sides against Russia lack grounding in reality.
Armenia’s Security Dilemma
- Armenia lacks realistic alternatives to Russia’s security umbrella due to geography and history.
- Western promises to Armenia lack material security guarantees, risking strategic miscalculations.
