US Secretary of State Blinken condemns “repression”, “election manipulations” in Georgia, supports European path

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has condemned the repression and violence faced by those advocating for Georgia’s European integration, following reports of aggression against peaceful protesters and journalists. Speaking on Thursday during the OSCE Ministerial, Blinken expressed the US’s strong support for the right to peaceful protest, highlighting concerns over Georgia’s suspension of its EU accession process.

“The US shares the concerns of many OSCE members about the decision of the Georgian Dream to suspend Georgia’s EU accession process. This has a 2014 feel to it,” Blinken said. He also noted disturbing reports from election observers in Georgia, which indicated voter intimidation and efforts by the ruling party to manipulate the electoral playing field in its favor.

Blinken further condemned the attacks and detentions of journalists, emphasizing that these anti-democratic actions underscore the vital role of the OSCE in supporting civil society and upholding democratic standards.