EU lawmaker advocates sanctions against Georgian officials for alleged Russian influence

European Parliament member Dainius Žalimas has called for sanctions against key Georgian political figures, including ruling party founder Bidzina Ivanishvili and PM Irakli Kobakhidze, accusing them of aligning the country with Russian interests. Speaking on the matter, Žalimas emphasized the importance of holding those responsible for undermining Georgia’s democratic aspirations accountable.

“I support imposing sanctions on everyone who subjects the country to Russian influence. This includes Ivanishvili, Kobakhidze, and others,” Žalimas stated, highlighting the need for international measures to address the situation.

The MEP also criticized Georgia’s parliamentary composition, describing it as failing to meet democratic standards due to its one-party structure. He noted that elections marred by alleged widespread fraud cannot be recognized as legitimate.

“A one-party parliament, regardless of the reasons, does not meet even the minimum norms of democracy. For a pluralistic democracy, a pluralistic parliament is essential,” Žalimas remarked, stressing the importance of free and fair elections for Georgia’s democratic future.

Žalimas expressed hope that the refusal to recognize the recent election results would pave the way for future electoral reforms and allow for genuinely fair and open elections.