A planned Trump Tower Tbilisi in the Georgian capital has sparked controversy after reports revealed the development is connected to land partly owned by the son of a powerful Georgian politician currently under U.S. sanctions.
The proposed skyscraper project in Tbilisi is a partnership involving the Trump Organization, managed by Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump, along with several Georgian development companies.
However, critics say the project raises major ethical and political concerns because of links to the family of Bidzina Ivanishvili, widely viewed as Georgia’s most influential political figure.
Land Linked to Family of Sanctioned Georgian Leader
According to official records, the land planned for the Trump Tower development is currently owned by the International Charity Fund Cartu.
The fund is controlled through Cartu Group JSC, which is partly owned by Uta Ivanishvili, the eldest son of Bidzina Ivanishvili.
The Biden administration sanctioned Bidzina Ivanishvili in 2024, accusing him of undermining Georgia’s democratic and pro-Western future in favour of Russian interests.
Although Uta Ivanishvili himself is not under sanctions, reports show he previously owned the entire Cartu Group before reducing his stake after sanctions were imposed on his father.
Trump Organization Faces Conflict of Interest Questions
The connection between the Trump Organization and land linked to the Ivanishvili family has triggered fresh concerns over possible conflicts of interest involving the business activities of President Donald Trump and his family.
Critics argue that allowing foreign developers and politically connected figures to use the Trump brand while Trump remains a major political figure creates ethical concerns.
The White House has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing and previously stated that neither Trump nor his family would engage in conflicts of interest.
Project Intended to Become Georgia’s Tallest Building
The proposed 70-storey tower is expected to become the tallest building in Georgia once completed.
The development involves partnerships between the Trump Organization and several Georgian firms, including Archi Group, Biograpi Living, Blox Group, Finvest Georgia, and the Sapir Organization.
None of the involved companies are currently under sanctions.
The project would be built on the site of a former Soviet-era horse racing track known locally as the hippodrome.
Critics Say Project Appears Politically Motivated
Opponents of the Georgian government believe the tower project may be an attempt by Bidzina Ivanishvili and allies of the ruling Georgian Dream party to strengthen ties with Trump and his administration.
Supporters of the ruling party, however, describe the development as proof that international investors have confidence in Georgia’s economy and political environment.
Shalva Papuashvili publicly praised the project and said Trump’s involvement reflects confidence in the country’s stability and business climate.
Anti-Corruption Groups Raise Concerns
Transparency advocates have also expressed concern about the development.
Transparency International Georgia questioned whether the project is truly a private business investment or instead a politically motivated partnership.
Critics specifically pointed to the land ownership structure, political affiliations of some developers, and the involvement of media outlets aligned with the Georgian government.
