Today’s EU Commission Enlargement Report leaves no room for doubt — it clearly outlines the authoritarian system established by the Georgian Dream government and the deliberate steps taken to suppress political opposition, independent media, and civil society, - reads a statement posted by Mamuka Khazaradze, leader of Lelo – Strong Georgia, on X.

„“The Commission considers Georgia a candidate country in name only.” This statement reflects the tragic outcome of Bidzina Ivanishvili’s pro-Russian foreign policy and authoritarian domestic rule, which directly contradict the will and aspirations of the overwhelming majority of Georgians who chose Europe.

The Georgian people continue to fight fearlessly for freedom, democracy, and their European future. The European Union and our democratic partners must respond firmly — through targeted restrictive measures against Georgian Dream officials responsible for democratic backsliding and political persecution.

Our path is clear — Georgia’s future belongs in Europe, not under the shadow of Russian-style authoritarianism”, reads the statement.