Ex-US sanctions coordinator warns of deteriorating US-Georgia relations

Daniel Fried, the former Coordinator for Sanctions Policy at the US State Department, warned that the introduction of the so-called “Russian law” in Georgia would likely further limit relations between the Georgian government and the United States.

He expressed concern that the actions of the Georgian government are distancing the country from its allies, suggesting that such steps could lead Georgia closer to Russia or allow China to expand its influence in the region.

“The Georgian government is attempting to repress opposition parties. The implementation of the ‘Russian law’ clearly limits relations between the Georgian government and the US as this relationship is based on shared democratic principles. When these principles are called into question, the relationship will also be in jeopardy,” Fried told Formula TV.

He expressed confusion over the Georgian government’s course, noting that its actions suggest a shift away from its allies and a move the country closer to Russia.

“Or they are allowing China to expand its influence in the region, and that is very concerning to me,” he added.