U.S. Senators Jim Risch and Jeanne Shaheen addressed the Senate floor to express their support for the Georgian people’s desire to align with Western values. They urged the Biden Administration to take decisive action against those in Georgia responsible for recent violence and political turmoil. This comes after the Georgian Dream government suspended its efforts to join the European Union, prompting peaceful protests that were met with force.
“Roughly 80% of the people of Georgia want to pursue EU membership,” said Risch. He criticized the current government’s actions, including “the arrest and torture of peaceful protestors.” Risch emphasized Congress’s provision allowing sanctions on those responsible for violence, expressing disappointment over inaction by the administration.
Shaheen echoed these sentiments, noting frustration with Georgia’s shift away from Euro-Atlantic integration following an October election. She highlighted concerns about Russian influence over Georgian politics and policy. “We have failed to respond in a meaningful way,” she stated, urging immediate action from the administration as Georgia’s future hangs in balance.
Both senators have voiced concern over Georgia’s situation and recently communicated with President Salome Zourabichvili, affirming bipartisan support amid ongoing unrest. They also spearheaded legislation aimed at holding Georgian officials accountable for corruption and human rights abuses.
In July, they supported a U.S. State Department decision to pause $95 million in assistance to Georgia following a controversial foreign agents law.
