UK MP James MacCleary Introduces Motion Against Georgian Politician
A UK Parliament member has called for potential sanctions against Bidzina Ivanishvili, a high-ranking politician in Georgia. The motion was introduced by James MacCleary and already has 13 signatures.
The motion expresses concern about Georgia’s democratic backsliding and the suspension of its EU accession process. It also condemns Ivanishvili’s role in undermining democracy and allowing Russian influence in the country. The UK Government is being asked to take similar action to the US, which has already imposed sanctions on Ivanishvili.
The motion also calls for a review of the UK’s strategic partnership with Georgia and closer coordination with EU partners to counter Russian interference. The signatories include several Liberal Democrat MPs.
In 2024, the UK imposed sanctions on five senior Georgian officials for their role in a crackdown on peaceful protesters. Those sanctioned included Vakhtang Gomelauri, Georgia’s Minister of Internal Affairs.
The move has been met with support from some US politicians, who have called for similar action against Ivanishvili and his associates.