On Thursday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced new sanctions against individuals and entities in Georgia undermining democratic processes and institutions. Blinken made it clear that those suppressing Georgian citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and expression would be held accountable.
“We stand in solidarity with the Georgian people and their democratic aspirations,” Blinken said. “The United States strongly condemns the Georgian Dream party’s brutal violence against citizens, protesters, media members, and opposition figures.”
He called on Georgian Dream to immediately cease its repressive tactics, which include arbitrary detention and physical violence used to silence critics. Blinken also raised concerns about the serious injuries sustained by citizens at the hands of law enforcement, calling for the release of those detained for exercising their rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.
“The United States has been a partner to Georgia for over 32 years. Our relationship is rooted in shared values of freedom and democracy, with the aim of bringing Georgia into the Euro-Atlantic community,” Blinken explained. “We have worked together to strengthen Georgia’s economy, defense capabilities, and various sectors, including education, health, and agriculture. Our commitment to Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity is unshakeable.”
He concluded by stating that those who continue to undermine democratic processes in Georgia will face further consequences. “In addition to our ongoing review of bilateral cooperation, the United States is preparing additional sanctions,” Blinken said.
