EU Imposes Visa Restrictions on Georgian Diplomats Amid Protests Over Election Dispute

The European Union has taken steps to impose visa restrictions on Georgian diplomats and government officials in response to the police crackdown on opposition protesters. These protests erupted after claims that the October election, which resulted in Mikheil Kavelashvili becoming president, was marred by irregularities and alleged Russian interference. Thousands of Georgians have demonstrated for weeks, demanding a rerun of the election, while police have increasingly used force to disperse the crowds.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas reported that after a tense discussion among the bloc’s foreign ministers, a decision was made to suspend the visa-free regime for diplomatic and service passports issued to Georgian officials. This action is a direct response to the growing unrest and the Georgian government’s handling of the protests.

However, Kallas’ proposed sanctions against specific Georgian officials were blocked by Hungary and Slovakia, two EU members with closer ties to Russia. The EU’s decision underscores the bloc’s concerns about democratic processes and human rights in Georgia amidst a tense political climate.