Georgia's pro-Western president has called on citizens to protest the disputed outcome of recent parliamentary elections, which she believes favored Russian President Vladimir Putin. The president stated that recognizing these elections would legitimize Russia's control over Georgia, jeopardizing the country's European future.
The election results have dealt a significant blow to Georgia's aspirations of joining the European Union and aligning more closely with the West. Concerns have been raised that the opposition's loss could further entrench Georgia under Russia's influence, hindering its EU membership prospects.
Experts have pointed out that Russian President Putin has long aimed to bring former Soviet states back under Russia's control. Questions have been raised about potential Russian interference in the election through tactics such as financing, intimidation, and agitation.
The U.S. has expressed support for Georgia's pro-European stance, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken condemning reported irregularities and violence during the election. International observers have not deemed the election to be free and fair, prompting calls for a thorough investigation into alleged violations.
Georgian Dream, the ruling party backed by Russia, claimed victory in the election, sparking allegations of fraud and ballot stuffing from opposition figures and Western observers. The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) highlighted incidents of voter intimidation and physical altercations during the election.
Georgians who reject the election results have begun protesting, with planned demonstrations outside the parliament. The tense situation has raised concerns about potential escalation if protests are met with security force violence.
Many Georgians strongly support joining the EU, with efforts to do so being hindered by the Georgian Dream Party. The EU paused Georgia's membership process following the introduction of a controversial 'foreign agent' law requiring entities receiving significant foreign funding to register as foreign agents.
