Trump Tower Planned in Tbilisi, Georgia on Land Part-Owned by Son of Sanctioned Leader

A Trump Tower is proposed to be built in Tbilisi, Georgia, on land partially owned by Uta Ivanishvili, the son of Bidzina Ivanishvili, who is under US sanctions. The project is a joint venture between the Trump Organization, managed by Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump, and a local consortium. The land is currently registered to the International Charity Fund Cartu, which is owned by Cartu Group JSC, with Uta Ivanishvili holding a 35% stake. Bidzina Ivanishvili was sanctioned by the Biden administration in 2024 for actions undermining Georgia's democracy. The Trump Organization's involvement has raised concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest, particularly in light of the sanctions against Bidzina Ivanishvili. The project is expected to include collaboration with several Georgian firms and aims to construct Georgia's tallest building. The land, previously a Soviet horse-racing track, is in the process of being sold to Central Park Avenue LLC, with a portion already transferred. Critics of Bidzina Ivanishvili view the project as an effort to align with US interests, while supporters claim it reflects confidence in Georgia's economy.