**UK Imposes Sanctions on Georgian Officials**
The United Kingdom has imposed sanctions on five high-ranking officials in Georgia. They are being punished for their role in violently cracking down on media and protesters.
According to the UK government, the sanctioned individuals include:
* Vakhtang Gomelauri, Minister of Internal Affairs
* Aleksandre Darakhvelidze, Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs
* Sulkhan Tamazashvili, Director of the Tbilisi Police Department
* Zviad Kharazishvili, Head of the Special Assignments Department
* Miller Lagazauri, Deputy Head of the Special Assignments Department
The UK government said these officials are being punished for human rights violations. They will be banned from traveling to the UK and will have their assets frozen.
**Why Are Sanctions Being Imposed?**
Last week, the UK suspended its support for Georgian government programs and limited defense cooperation with Georgia. This was in response to the Georgian authorities‘ crackdown on demonstrations, civil society, media, and opposition figures.
The UK said this decision undermines the core provisions of Georgia’s constitution and makes the country more vulnerable to the Kremlin.
**Reactions from the Government**
Foreign Secretary David Lammy said: “The shocking violence against demonstrators, opposition leaders, and journalists is a horrific attack on democracy and the right of the Georgian people to exercise their fundamental freedoms.”
Lammy added that the UK stands by the people of Georgia and will consider all options to hold responsible parties accountable.
**Background**
There have been reports of special forces using water cannons, tear gas, and rubber bullets to disperse peaceful protesters in Georgia. UN experts have condemned the repression and human rights violations in the country.
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