EU Condemns Georgian Dream's 'Disinformation,' Attacks on Ambassador Amid Visa-Free Travel Risk

Brussels, Belgium – The European Union has issued a strong rebuke to Georgia's ruling Georgian Dream (GD) authorities, firmly condemning what it termed "disinformation and baseless accusations" regarding the EU's role in the country. The EU also "strongly denounced" personal attacks directed at its Ambassador to Georgia, Paweł Herczyński.

The condemnation comes as Georgia's visa-free travel arrangement with the EU faces potential jeopardy. Brussels has called on the Georgian Dream government to fulfill eight specific conditions, including the repeal of a controversial anti-LGBT law. Georgian Dream, however, maintains that this law is intended to protect traditional family values and has accused the EU of being under "deep state" control, alleging that visa liberalization is being used to pressure the government and draw Georgia into the war in Ukraine.

In a statement released on July 25, an EU spokesperson clarified, "Recent statements falsely claiming that the EU seeks to destabilize Georgia, drag it into war, or impose so-called ‘non-traditional values,’ constitute a deliberate attempt to mislead the public." The statement emphasized that such "Russian-style conspiracy theories and divisive narratives" only serve those who oppose Georgia’s democratic and European aspirations, thereby undermining EU-Georgia relations.

The EU further highlighted its "full trust and support" for Ambassador Paweł Herczyński, stating that he "plays a vital role in fostering relations between the EU and Georgia." Despite this, Georgian Dream members have continued to target Ambassador Herczyński and other Western diplomats, alleging they serve a "deep state" agenda. Notably, GD Secretary General and Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze recently stated he would expel Herczyński from the country if he had the authority.

Concluding its statement, the EU reiterated its consistent and reliable partnership with Georgia, reaffirming "unwavering support for the territorial integrity of Georgia" and "steadfast solidarity with the Georgian people." The bloc expressed its readiness to continue supporting Georgians on their path towards a European future. The EU urged all political actors in Georgia to cease spreading disinformation, avoid inflammatory personal attacks, and actively work towards the European future desired by its population.