Georgian opposition leader calls for targeted visa restrictions on Government officials amid protests

Gigi Tsereteli, a leader of the United National Movement opposition, has called for visa restrictions to be imposed not on ordinary Georgian citizens, but on representatives of the “de facto government” holding diplomatic passports by the EU.

Tsereteli argued on Tuesday that such measures would represent Western support for Georgia’s aspirations to integrate more closely with Europe, as well as backing for the tens of thousands of citizens who have been protesting for over 40 days against the Government’s decision to halt EU accession until 2028.

Speaking about the ongoing crisis in Georgia, Tsereteli emphasized the lack of meaningful dialogue to address the situation, noting that protests have intensified in response to government actions that many see as obstructing the country’s European future. More than 4000 protesters have been arrested during the demonstrations, and Tsereteli warned that continued government repression would provoke a stronger response from Georgia’s international partners.

Tsereteli further explained that European foreign ministers had discussed the possibility of imposing visa restrictions at the highest levels, including the European Council. However, he clarified that the focus should be on those officials who hold diplomatic or service passports, rather than punishing the general Georgian public.