Brussels [Belgium], December 12: The European Union is threatening the Georgian government with sanctions in light of the violence against pro-European protesters. Possible measures will be examined at the foreign ministers' meeting next Monday, a spokeswoman for the EU's foreign affairs representative Kaja Kallas said in Brussels.
She said violence was not an answer to the demonstrators' demands for a democratic and European future for Georgia. The spokeswoman initially did not specify the type of sanctions being discussed. Potential actions could include imposing EU travel bans on those responsible for the recent events and freezing assets held in the EU.
Regarding the current developments in the South Caucasus republic bordering Russia, the spokeswoman's statement noted that for almost two weeks, Georgian citizens have been facing brutal and unlawful police violence during their protests.
Arbitrary arrests of demonstrators and opposition leaders continue, with media representatives particularly targeted by law enforcement agencies and informal violent groups. According to information from the EU, more than 400 people have already been arrested. Reports suggest that over 300 have suffered violence and mistreatment, many of whom urgently need medical assistance.
Source: Qatar Tribune
