"The situation is not going to a positive direction for the Georgian people," the EU's new foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said after meeting with the ministers on Monday. The comments reflect deep concerns regarding the state of democracy in Georgia following the ruling party's crackdown on pro-EU protests and the temporary halt of their European aspirations.
Kallas indicated that "today we agreed the need to halt the visa-free regime for diplomatic passport holders," highlighting the EU's response to Georgia's internal unrest. The ministers are also deliberating sanctions against Georgian officials involved in the violent suppression of opposition.
Despite some pushback, notably Hungary's veto against sanctions on specific Georgian police officials, Kallas expressed determination: "it's my first Hungarian veto, but I can guarantee it's not the last," signaling that EU unity and decisive action might be challenged as tensions escalate.
Protests erupted after the ruling Georgian Dream party was accused of electoral fraud, followed by a decision to delay EU accession talks. Although Georgia was granted candidate status in December 2023, the EU has reduced support and halted progress due to increased authoritarianism.
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