**US and UK Lawmakers Call for Action Against Georgian Oligarch**
On January 30, two lawmakers from the US and UK released a joint letter calling on the British government to take action against Bidzina Ivanishvili, a wealthy businessman and politician in Georgia.
The letter was signed by Joe Wilson, chairman of the US Helsinki Commission, and James MacCleary, a member of the British Parliament. They urged David Lammy, the UK’s foreign secretary, to impose sanctions on Ivanishvili and suspend the UK’s strategic partnership with Georgia.
**UK Sanctions Could Have Big Impact**
The lawmakers pointed out that Ivanishvili and his associates have significant assets in the UK through companies registered there. They emphasized that UK sanctions could have a big impact because of this. In December 2024, the US had already imposed sanctions on Ivanishvili.
**Concerns About Imedi TV and Democratic Backsliding**
The letter also expressed concern about Ivanishvili’s media outlet, Imedi TV, which is registered in the UK. The lawmakers worry that he is using this platform to spread propaganda and undermine democracy in Georgia.
They accused Ivanishvili of being an “oligarchic oppressor” who has stripped Georgia of its democratic rights, allowing it to become more dependent on Russia. They also expressed alarm over the violent suppression of opposition voices and the persecution of journalists in the country.
**A United Response**
The authors of the letter emphasized that a united response from the US and UK is needed to address the challenge posed by Ivanishvili. They recalled that the US had imposed sanctions on him in December 2024, and now it’s time for the UK to take similar action.
They drew parallels with the UK’s response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, urging Britain to demonstrate similar resolve in upholding international law and maintaining its position as a global leader in the fight for peace and democracy.
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