**Former US Officials Warn of Democratic Decline in Georgia**
A group of 17 former US national security officials, diplomats, and experts on Georgia have expressed concerns over the country’s democratic decline. In an open letter, they condemn the violent crackdowns on peaceful protesters in Tbilisi and urge the US government to take action.
The letter highlights several issues, including Georgia’s withdrawal from EU accession talks, which was praised by Russian President Vladimir Putin. The group also criticizes restrictions on non-governmental organizations (NGOs), attacks on civil society, and flawed parliamentary elections.
**US Urged to Take Decisive Measures**
The signatories of the letter urge the US government to implement several policy measures, including withholding recognition of the results of the October 26 parliamentary elections. They also call for sanctions to be imposed on key Georgian officials, such as Bidzina Ivanishvili and Irakli Kobakhidze.
**Sanctions and Free Elections Demanded**
The letter demands that the US impose sanctions on those responsible for the crackdowns and flawed elections. It also calls for support for President Salome Zourabichvili‘s efforts to hold new, free, and fair elections under a new Central Election Commission.
**Experts Warn of Consequences**
The signatories of the letter warn that Georgia’s democratic decline is at stake. They call for joint US-EU action to ensure the effectiveness of assistance to the Georgian people.
**Signatories Include Former US Ambassadors**
The open letter was signed by several high-profile former US officials, including:
* Amb. Robert F. Cekuta – Former U.S. Ambassador to Azerbaijan
* Amb. Paula Dobriansky – Former Under Secretary of State for Global Affairs
* Dr. Evelyn Farkas – Executive Director of the McCain Institute; former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Russia, Ukraine, Eurasia
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