Prepared by Messenger Staff
Georgia Takes Part in U.S.-Led Sea Breeze 2026 Naval Exercise
Georgia joined the second phase of the U.S.-led Sea Breeze 2026 multinational maritime exercise, which brought together NATO allies and partner countries for joint training aimed at improving cooperation and maritime security, the U.S. Embassy said on July 28.
The exercise was held in Portland, United Kingdom, from July 13 to 24. Georgia was represented by 12 personnel from the Coast Guard and the Defense Forces.
Other participating countries included Bulgaria, Denmark, Estonia, France, Greece, Japan, Latvia, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Türkiye, Ukraine, the United Kingdom and the United States.
According to the U.S. Embassy, this year's second iteration of Sea Breeze focused on mine countermeasure operations. Participating forces trained in mine hunting, explosive ordnance disposal, diving and salvage missions, as well as the use of unmanned underwater and surface systems.
The embassy said the drills were designed to improve multinational planning, command and control, and tactical coordination among participating forces.
"Through multinational planning, command and control, and tactical training, Sea Breeze 2026 enhanced interoperability among NATO Allies and partners, strengthened maritime capabilities, and contributed to a safer, more secure Black Sea region," the embassy said.
The first phase of Sea Breeze 2026 was hosted by Romania from June 3 to 19.
GPB Director Tinatin Berdzenishvili Re-Elected for Second Term
Tinatin Berdzenishvili has been re-elected as director general of the Georgian Public Broadcaster (GPB) for a second six-year term after receiving the backing of the broadcaster's Board of Trustees on July 29.
Berdzenishvili was the only candidate in the selection process and secured the support of eight of the nine board members. Board member Lika Basilaia-Shavgulidze voted against her appointment.
Berdzenishvili has led GPB since 2020 and has worked at the broadcaster since 2011, holding several senior management positions before becoming director general.
Her reappointment comes as GPB continues to face criticism from anti-government protesters and media watchdogs, who accuse the public broadcaster of favoring the ruling Georgian Dream party and have repeatedly demanded greater access to its airtime.
