Tornike Shengelia, captain of Georgia’s national basketball team: “The Georgian people always have fought to protect their freedom. No one has been able, nor will anyone ever be able, to oppress or bring our nation to its knees. Together, we can achieve anything! What is happening in our country today is unacceptable. It is heartbreaking and terrifying to see this violence and I condemn it. Our future lies in Europe. Peace to Georgia and its people!”
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia: “The Georgian people have a clear desire and determination to follow the European path—this is our historical and rightful choice, and we must not stray from it. This country belongs to its people, and no one has the right to override their will. It pains me deeply to see my country and my people suffering. Watching the circulating videos is both heartbreaking and emotional. Stop the violence and aggression! Georgia deserves Europe now more than ever!”
Giorgi Kochorashvili: “Georgia deserves unity and justice. It is heartbreaking to see our people suffering. Our voice and action should be directed towards the better future of the country.”
Chairman of the US Helsinki Commission, Joe Wilson: “We must impose sanctions against the illegitimate Russian puppets who attack the Georgian people and deny their sovereignty, including against Bidzina Ivanishvili and his entourage.”
Latvian MEP Rihards Kols: “Scenes from Georgia: Police brutality, tear gas and water cannon used to silence peaceful pro-European demonstrators. 80% of Georgians want a future in the European Union, but the ruling “Georgian Dream” government is dragging them to the pro-Russian abyss. The West must act – the Georgian people deserve better!”
Caspar Veldkamp, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands: “Shocked to see the violent crackdown against protestors and journalists in Georgia, where many citizens stand up and speak out for their European aspirations. The Netherlands condemns this unacceptable violence. The Georgian people deserve our full support.”
