US vows ‘serious political implications beyond mere rhetoric’ due to Georgia’s agents’ law

The US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller on Wednesday pledged “significant political implications beyond mere rhetoric” after Georgia’s adoption of the controversial foreign influence transparency bill.

“Less than two weeks ago, we announced our decision to review relations, considering the adoption of this law in Georgia. There are tangible and serious political consequences, not just rhetoric. We are discussing the aid we provide to Georgia, which amounts to approximately $390 million. In the current review of the previous year’s budget legislation, this includes potential sanctions and the visa restrictions we announced less than two weeks ago, which we are now determining when and how to implement. You will hear more from us on this matter, though not today”, he said. 

The official also said the Secretary of State had initiated the policy review and was leading the process, “working closely with colleagues at the State Department and collaborating with other agencies. 
Following these consultations, the Secretary of State will make the final decision”. 

The law adopted last month requires organizations receiving more than 20 percent of their funding from abroad to register as pursuant with foreign influence. The legislation was drafted by the Georgian Dream party ruling party and has been branded as a “Russian law” by opponents and the international community due to its resemblance with a related Russian law and expected alleged pressure on western-funded organizations in the country.