U.S. Targets 20 Georgian Officials with Visa Bans for Undermining Democracy

Dec 13, 2024, 01:37 AM

The United States has imposed visa restrictions on approximately 20 Georgian officials, including government ministers, members of parliament, and law enforcement officers, for undermining democracy in the country. This decision comes amidst ongoing pro-European Union protests in Georgia, which have entered their third week, sparked by the Georgian government's decision to delay its EU integration efforts. The U.S. State Department has stated that these measures are part of its commitment to support democracy and fundamental freedoms in Georgia. The protests have been met with severe crackdowns by the Georgian authorities, with reports of violence against demonstrators, including the use of tear gas and water cannons, leading to hundreds of arrests and injuries.