**US Should Stand with Pro-American Georgians, Say Former Diplomats**
The United States should appoint a new ambassador to Georgia and pass the “MEGOBARI Act” in a show of solidarity with most Georgians, say two former US diplomats. Ian Kelly, who was once the US Ambassador to Georgia, and David Kramer, a senior State Department official, made this call in a joint statement.
The reason for this call is that while the Georgian people are strongly pro-American, their government has been leaning towards Moscow. In fact, it’s increasingly behaving like Russia itself by cracking down on opposition and civil society groups. Kelly and Kramer think this makes it crucial for the Trump administration to appoint a new ambassador who will speak out firmly against these authoritarian tendencies.
**Why a New Ambassador Matters**
For years, Georgia has been a key partner for the US in a difficult region. The country’s population has been one of the most pro-American in the world. But now, with the government clearly siding with Russia, it’s time for the US to take a stand. Kelly and Kramer argue that a new ambassador is needed who will speak out against these anti-democratic actions.
**The “MEGOBARI Act”**
But that’s not all. The Senate should also pass the “MEGOBARI Act”, which has already been approved by the House of Representatives. This legislation aims to hold Georgian officials accountable for their anti-American actions and demonstrate US concern about Georgia’s slide towards authoritarian rule.
**Redoubling Efforts with Europe**
Kelly and Kramer go on to say that the US, together with European allies, should redouble efforts to get Georgia back on a democratic, pro-Western path. And why not? There’s a window of opportunity because Russia is losing influence in the region. Armenia and Azerbaijan have soured on their ties to Moscow, while Ukraine is fighting off Russia’s brutal invasion.
**Conclusion**
In short, the US should appoint a new ambassador who will speak out against Georgia’s authoritarian tendencies and pass the “MEGOBARI Act” as a show of solidarity with most Georgians. Both steps are urgently needed before things get even worse.
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