The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, has expressed concern about the situation in the Georgian capital, Tbilisi, amid ongoing anti-government protests against a new foreign influence law, which critics fear could be used to limit press freedoms and the work of civil society. The protests, which have attracted international attention, highlight growing discontent in the country and calls for a closer alignment with European ideals.
"I am following the situation in Georgia with great concern and condemn the violence on the streets of Tbilisi," said von der Leyen on X (formerly Twitter). "The Georgian people want a European future for their country".
The protests, sparked by a number of domestic and international issues, have led to clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement. Tensions have risen sharply, prompting world leaders to urge peaceful solutions.
Stressing the importance of Georgia's European aspirations, von der Leyen said: "Georgia is at a crossroads. It should stay the course on the road to Europe". This sentiment echoes the desire of many Georgians who have long called for closer ties with the European Union.
The EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell has also strongly condemned the violence. "I strongly condemn the violence against protesters in Georgia who were peacefully demonstrating against the law on foreign influence. Georgia is an EU candidate country, I call on its authorities to ensure the right to peaceful assembly.Use of force to suppress it is unacceptable" said Borrell on X.
