Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that the “biggest problem” for Armenia’s path to EU integration is the “frozen state of political dialogue between the EU and Georgia.” He made this assertion during a speech at the European Parliament in March 2026. Pashinyan referenced the Armenian Parliament’s March 2025 law initiating Armenia’s accession to the EU,…
The debate in the European Parliament centered on the situation in georgia, specifically addressing political repression and the detention of political prisoners under the Georgian Dream regime. Concerns were raised regarding the treatment of opposition figures, journalists, and civil society activists, with accusations of a politically motivated crackdown. Transparency International highlighted new legislation criminalizing critical…
Two oil tankers faced attack in Iraqi waters on Wednesday night, with one vessel reportedly carrying over 20 Georgian crew members. Reuters reported the incident, citing multiple sources, suggesting explosive-laden boats originating from Iran conducted the assault. Iraqi port officials identified the targeted tankers as Safesea Vishnu and Zefyros. An Indian crew member aboard Safesea…
Daily Brief – Thursday, 12 March 2026 by OC Media • 3 minutes OC Media offers a unique opportunity for those interested in the region. As a valued member, you gain privileged access to our specialized content and community. Become an OC Media member and unlock a suite of benefits designed for serious observers of…
Georgia 12.03.2026: ISFED Reports Channel Circumvention Tbilisi – Following the imposition of UK sanctions, two prominent georgian television channels, Imedi and POSTV, have been observed attempting to bypass social media advertising restrictions. The International Society for Fair Elections and Democracy (ISFED) has documented this activity, revealing that both channels experienced difficulties promoting content on Meta…
Over 2,500 militants have been killed in the north Caucasus since 2006, alongside approximately 5,000 individuals detained as alleged accomplices, according to Aleksandr Bortnikov, Chair of the National Anti-Terrorism Committee and head of the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB). Speaking to Rossiyskaya Gazeta, Bortnikov highlighted extensive training undertaken by many of these “well-armed militants,” often…
The exclave of nakhchivan has lost significant autonomy following new constitutional amendments approved by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. The changes, enacted on Tuesday, dramatically reduce the region’s self-governance and increase presidential control over its administration. For many years, nakhchivan and its approximately 500,000 residents enjoyed a considerable degree of independence. However, these amendments introduce an…
Michele Vitiello, Secretary General of the Italian Committee of the World Energy Council (WEC Italy), discussed key developments with the Report on March 4th. The conversation centered around the projected schedule for SOCAR’s acquisition of Italiana Petroli. He addressed the potential consequences of Azerbaijani investment on Italy’s refining industry, alongside the ramifications for the nation’s…
The Ministry of the Interior of the Abkhaz separatist region reported an arrest on February 22nd. The individual apprehended is believed to be connected to the wounding of Eshsou Kakalia. Kakalia is a former deputy public prosecutor within the separatist region and a key figure in the opposition public organization, “Aidgylara.” According to the Ministry’s…
On February 20th, Alik Minasyan secured another term as chairman of the Armenian community within the separatist region of Abkhazia. This outcome occurred during a congress held in Matschara, a village located in the Gulripsh district. During his report, Minasyan detailed the activities undertaken by the community and underscored its vital function. He stressed the…