The civilized world continues to respond to the brutal crackdowns on peaceful demonstrations in Georgia. Countries are sanctioning officials formally responsible for these actions, but not the one who truly runs the country. Sanctions against Ivanishvili have only been imposed by Ukraine and the Baltic States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The United Kingdom announced sanctions against five leaders of Georgia's Ministry of Internal Affairs for human rights violations, media suppression, and violent crackdowns on peaceful protests. The individuals targeted include Interior Minister Vakhtang Gomelauri, his deputy Alexander Darakhvelidze, Tbilisi Police Department head Sulkhan Tamazashvili, Special Tasks Department head Zviad Kharazishvili, and his deputy Mileri Lagazauri. The sanctions include travel bans to the UK, asset freezes, and prohibitions on conducting business within British territory.
In a December 19 statement, the UK government said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\"The Georgian authorities have systematically suppressed demonstrations, civil society, media, and opposition figures after public backlash against Georgian Dream's decision to halt the country\u2019s progress toward a European future. This decision undermines a key component of Georgia's Constitution and is seen by many as Georgian Dream\u2019s final move, making Georgia more vulnerable to the Kremlin.\"<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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As the crackdown in Georgia intensifies, many question why international sanctions have not yet targeted Bidzina Ivanishvili, the oligarch widely believed to be the de facto ruler of the country. While some countries have taken steps to address the violence, broader and more decisive actions against Ivanishvili himself may be necessary to address the underlying issues and support Georgia's democratic aspirations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n