US imposes sanctions on Georgian officials for human rights abuses against protesters

The United States has announced sanctions against two senior officials from Georgia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs for their involvement in serious human rights abuses during violent crackdowns on protesters, journalists, and opposition members throughout 2024.

In a press statement, Department of State detailed the sanctions against Georgian Minister of Internal Affairs Vakhtang Gomelauri and Mirza Kezevadze, Deputy Head of the Ministry’s Special Task’s Department. The sanctions, issued under the Global Magnitsky program, include asset freezes and restrictions on their financial dealings with US entities.

In addition, the Department of State is imposing visa restrictions on multiple Georgian law enforcement, security, and municipal officials, along with their family members. These individuals have been accused of suppressing fundamental freedoms, including voter coercion and intimidation.

“Today’s actions build on sanctions imposed in September, visa restrictions announced last week, and align with measures taken by the United Kingdom and several European nations,” Miller stated.

The US condemned the ongoing violence and repression perpetrated by Georgian authorities, reaffirming its support for the Georgian people’s fight for democracy and human rights. “We stand with the people of Georgia and remain committed to promoting accountability for those complicit in human rights abuses and undermining their democratic future,” the statement emphasized.