**EU Warns of “Belarusian-Style Authoritarian Regime” in Georgia**
On December 17, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) discussed the recent democratic backsliding in Georgia. They expressed concern that the country is moving towards a “Belarusian-style authoritarian regime under the shadow of the Kremlin.”
**EU Urged to Take Action**
MEPs called on the EU to immediately impose real sanctions against those responsible for the rigged elections and violence against peaceful demonstrators. Małgorzata Gosiewska, a Polish MEP, emphasized the urgency of EU action, saying “Wake up Europe!” She also asked what the EU was waiting for before taking action.
**Solidarity with Georgian Citizens**
MEPs expressed solidarity with Georgian citizens and reaffirmed their dedication to a European future. They emphasized that Georgia’s future is European and that the EU must stand firm in its support. Reinier Van Lanschoot, another MEP, suggested targeted sanctions on Georgian leaders, saying “Sanction the leaders of the Georgian Dream party; all they care about is their wealth.”
**EU Fails to Reach Consensus on Sanctions**
The discussion follows a visit by several MEPs to Georgia on December 12 as a show of support for the Georgian people. The political crisis and repression in Georgia were also discussed at the European Council Foreign Affairs meeting on December 16, but ministers failed to reach a consensus on sanctions due to a lack of unanimity.
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