“I have no difficulties here and I lack nothing. Let’s continue the struggle - me from here, you from there. Until the end,” wrote the leader of the party “Droa,” Elene Khoshtaria, in a letter sent from prison in response to the Tbilisi City Court’s decision sentencing her to 1 year and 6 months in prison.

According to her, she does not recognize the “Russian regime” and is ready for all the discomfort that comes with this struggle.

“When you fight a Russian regime, do not recognize it, and understand what kind of struggle you are in, it would be surprising - even irresponsible - not to be prepared for a range of discomforts. Even in this situation, I want to tell you sincerely and without embellishment: I cannot even take it seriously that Bidzina Ivanishvili thinks he has punished me. Someone may have wiped their brow and said, ‘We solved one issue - we punished her.’ Friends, punishment for me would have been fear - if I had given in and adapted to the Russians, if I had not prepared to fight them.

I genuinely laugh at those who think prison is a punishment or a way to slow down the struggle. On the contrary, I even find a certain satisfaction when so-called judges or others beg me to admit guilt. No matter what methods they use, they are all doomed. I clearly understand their weak points, and that is exactly where they will receive calm and steady blows from us.

I want to address one more issue - just once. My four children are the responsibility of me and my family, and may God forbid that I ever leave them relying on ‘Georgian Dream.’ My children do not need Russian mercy. They understand very well what they are enduring - much better than any ‘Georgian Dream’ supporter.

I also want to thank the ‘opposition alliance’ for its clear position - there will be no bargaining. And thank you to everyone: journalists, activists, and all citizens for your support. I also thank the prison administration, everyone without exception. I have no difficulties here and I lack nothing. Let us continue the struggle - me from here, you from there. Until the end,” Khoshtaria wrote.

For context, Elene Khoshtaria was found guilty of damaging Kaha Kaladze’s election banner. The decision was made by Tbilisi City Court judge Giorgi Arevadze, who sentenced her to 1 year and 6 months in prison.