Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze met with the United States Ambassador, Robin Dunnigan, following the US's imposition of financial sanctions and visa restrictions on Georgian government representatives and their family members.
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Based on a statement released by the Georgian government administration, during the meeting, the Prime Minister's concern was expressed over the US State Department's decision made yesterday.
"It was noted that this decision has brought the American side close to a critical limit, which, if followed by another similar decision, may lead to a significant reevaluation of Georgia's position regarding Georgian-American relations.
It was noted at the meeting that the US State Department's decision is aimed at improving the opposition's chances before the elections. However, it is considered completely counterproductive, as it will neither benefit the opposition's election results nor intimidate the ruling team.
As stated by the Prime Minister, on the contrary, it is believed that the State Department's decision will further strengthen the public's resolve to stand firm on October 26 to protect Georgia's independence and sovereignty," the statement said.
On September 16, the US Treasury Department imposed financial sanctions on Zviad Kharazishvili, also known as Khareba, director of the Department of Special Tasks of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia, and one of his deputies, Mileri Lagazauri. The sanctions are based on their involvement in severe human rights violations during the violent crackdown on peaceful protests against the Russian law.
Additionally, the State Department imposed visa restrictions on over 60 Georgian citizens and their family members responsible for or complicit in undermining democracy in Georgia. The names of those sanctioned are not disclosed; however, according to the department, they include high-ranking government and municipal officials, business leaders, individuals spreading misinformation and promoting violent extremism, and law enforcement representatives.
