Macron: Georgia’s European path betrayed after elections

French President Emmanuel Macron has condemned what he called the “betrayal” of Georgia’s European aspirations, expressing concern over the “repression of young people” and “disturbing statements” by the country’s leadership.

Speaking alongside Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Thursday in Warsaw, Macron said Georgia had been targeted by Russian hybrid attacks on its electoral process, citing Moldova and Romania as other examples of such interference.

“Georgia has become the victim of a clear attack of manipulation,” Macron said. “The betrayal of the European path occurred immediately after the elections and fundamentally contradicts what was promised to voters during the pre-election campaign.”

Macron reiterated France’s full support for Georgia’s European integration and its defenders of democracy while warning of the consequences of recent developments.