Mikheil Kavelashvili, a member of Georgia’s parliamentary majority, has strongly criticized the recent actions of the US administration and specific American senators, accusing them of undue interference in the country’s internal affairs. He pointed out what he described as unprecedented pressure from the US, including threats of sanctions and the potential cancellation of Georgia’s visa liberalization with the EU.
“I can’t recall such interference as we are seeing now from the US administration and certain senators. They are sending direct messages of blackmail, saying they will impose sanctions, and revoke visa liberalization. Why? They claim it’s due to democratic backsliding. But what exactly is this backsliding? Can anyone explain that?” Kavelashvili told reporters, questioning the rationale behind the US criticism of Georgia’s „democratic progress.”
Kavelashvili went on to defend the Georgian government’s policies, which, according to him, prioritize peace, unity, and economic development. He framed the US actions as an attempt to undermine the country’s sovereignty and peaceful political agenda.
“The Prime Minister of Georgia, acting in the nation’s interests, is calling for peace, unity, and economic progress. We are ready to cooperate with larger countries to make the South Caucasus a stable and prosperous region. But who is opposing this? The foreign-backed opposition, acting as a fifth column, continues to stir unrest,” the MP stated.
On Wednesday the US administration revoked the invitation for Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze to attend a reception hosted by President Joe Biden.
