The assistance programs that benefit the Georgian Dream government will be paused, they may be modified to redirect resources to nongovernment entities working within a particular sector. Such a statement made the Principal Deputy Spokesperson of the US Department of State.

“Earlier this morning the Secretary announced that the US will pause USD 95 million in assistance that would have benefited the Government of Georgia. The U.S. is taking this step due to the Georgian Government’s recent anti-democratic actions and false statements that are incompatible with membership norms both in the European Union and NATO.

Let’s remember that nearly 80% of the Georgian people support EU membership, but the Georgian Government through its own actions, including this spreading of disinformation about its allies and partners, is moving the country further from European aspirations of its citizens.

We’ll continue to urge the Georgian Government to return to the path of democracy and Euro-Atlantic integration by repealing the foreign influence law, withdrawing other problematic legislation, ending its disinformation campaign, and committing to conduct the elections and pre-election season transparently and allowing international and domestic monitors. These actions would be consistent with receiving support from the US as a democratic partner.

Though our bilateral ties are at a uniquely challenging moment, the US commitment to the Georgian people and their aspirations is absolutely enduring. We will continue to support programs and activities that benefit the people of Georgia by strengthening democracy, rule of law, independent media, and economic development.

The review is ongoing and we of course stand at the ready to take any additional and appropriate action should we need to…

The assistance programs that benefit the Georgian Dream government will be paused while we continue to assess the broader bilateral relationship. In some cases, assistance programs may be modified to redirect resources to nongovernment entities working within a particular sector”, - said Vedant Patel.