Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Thursday that he had imposed sanctions on 19 individuals, including former Georgian Prime Minister Bidzina Ivanishvili and several key figures in Georgia’s government. The move follows escalating tensions between Georgia’s ruling party and its opposition, who accuse the government of increasingly authoritarian and pro-Russian policies.
Zelenskyy accused the Georgian government of aligning itself with Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating that the sanctions targeted those “handing Georgia over” to Moscow. Among those sanctioned were Georgia’s interior minister and the head of the country’s state security service. The sanctions include restrictions on financial activities, property rights, and entry to Ukraine.
Ivanishvili, a billionaire and founder of the Georgian Dream party, is considered the most influential figure in Georgia’s political landscape. Tensions have been rising in Georgia, particularly after the ruling party suspended discussions about the country joining the European Union, sparking protests and clashes between demonstrators and police.
Zelenskyy expressed concern over what he described as the betrayal of Georgia’s interests, urging Ukraine’s Western allies, including the US, to take action in support of Georgia’s sovereignty and freedom. The sanctions are part of Ukraine’s broader strategy to challenge Russian influence in the region and promote democratic values.
