Wed Jan 01 06:54:09 UTC 2025: ## EU Condemns Georgia’s Crackdown, Threatens Sanctions
**Tbilisi, Georgia** – Germany, France, and Poland have issued a joint statement condemning the recent political crisis in Georgia and threatening sanctions following the inauguration of Mikheil Kavelashvili as president. The three European nations expressed deep concern over the October 26 election, which the opposition claims was rigged with Russian assistance, and the subsequent crackdown on peaceful protesters, journalists, and opposition leaders.
The statement specifically denounced the violence against demonstrators and the government’s disregard for human rights and freedoms of assembly and the press. As a direct response to what they call the Georgian Dream party’s pro-Russia stance and the suspension of EU accession talks, the three countries announced they would end visa-free travel for Georgian diplomatic and service passport holders and consider further sanctions at both EU and national levels. They also signaled a reduction in aid and cooperation with the Georgian government.
Thousands have protested nightly for weeks against the Georgian Dream party, which critics accuse of increasing authoritarianism and aligning with Moscow. The government’s response has included the use of riot police, water cannons, tear gas, and alleged attacks by thugs against protesters and journalists. Hundreds have been injured and detained.
The situation has drawn international condemnation, with the US and EU officials echoing concerns over Georgia’s democratic backsliding. Despite the Georgian Dream party’s vow to continue pursuing EU accession, the ongoing crisis significantly jeopardizes the country’s European aspirations and strengthens concerns about growing Russian influence.
First Piper 