Georgia may reevaluate relations with US following sanctions on top officials PM Kobakhidze warns US envoy

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, during a meeting with U.S. Ambassador Robin Dunnigan, expressed deep concerns regarding recent U.S. sanctions targeting Georgian citizens.

He stated that Georgia might reconsider its stance on bilateral relations if such actions are repeated, Caliber.Az reports citing Georgian media sources.

The sanctions were imposed on the head of the Department for Special Assignments of Georgia's Interior Ministry, his deputy, and leaders of the media platform and conservative movement "Alt-Info," for alleged human rights violations. Visa restrictions are also planned for dozens of other citizens for accusations of undermining democracy in the country.

During the meeting, Kobakhidze emphasized his respect for the U.S. Ambassador but voiced his concerns over the State Department's recent decision. He warned that this move brought U.S.-Georgian relations to a critical point, and any similar actions in the future might force Georgia to re-evaluate its partnership with the United States.

Kobakhidze also suggested that the sanctions were politically motivated, aimed at supporting opposition forces ahead of Georgia's parliamentary elections. He dismissed the idea that such measures would benefit the opposition, asserting that they would not intimidate the ruling party.

In his view, the decision by the U.S. State Department would likely have the opposite effect, reinforcing public determination to defend Georgia's independence and sovereignty in the upcoming elections on October 26.

Later, while speaking to reporters, the Prime Minister emphasized that all individuals must adhere to the country's laws and Constitution, without exceeding its legal boundaries. When asked about his message to banks in response to U.S. sanctions imposed on Interior Ministry officials, Kobakhidze reiterated the importance of upholding the rule of law.

"Everyone must follow Georgian law and the Constitution. It's a fundamental principle of the rule of law, and no one is permitted to step outside the constitutional framework," Kobakhidze stated.

He further stressed the significance of respecting the nation's legal system, adding, "The Constitution provides a clear framework, and both the Constitution and the law must be respected. The rest, we will address together."

by Tamilla Hasanova