Zelensky accused the Georgian government of surrendering the country to Russian influence. The sanctions are a direct response to the violent police crackdown on protesters who were demonstrating against the government's handling of the country's European Union integration process.

The Georgian government has faced widespread criticism for its authoritarian tendencies and its perceived alignment with Russia. The recent crackdown has further eroded the country's democratic credentials and sparked international condemnation.

The US and several European countries have condemned the violence against protesters and called on the Georgian government to respect human rights and democratic principles. The US has not ruled out additional sanctions against Georgian officials. (ILKHA)