**Lithuanian Foreign Minister Warns Against Re-Engaging with Georgian Dream**
The Lithuanian government has issued a strong warning to the European Union and other international partners not to re-engage with Georgia’s ruling party, Georgian Dream, unless it recommits to democratic principles. The statement comes from Kęstutis Budrys, Lithuania’s Foreign Minister.
According to Budrys, the EU missed an opportunity to impose sanctions on Georgia during its ongoing democratic backsliding. He cited a number of incidents, including the crackdown on civil society, flawed elections, and the use of force against peaceful protesters.
“I think we missed not once a chance to send a stronger message to Georgian authorities about the path they have chosen,” Budrys said in an interview with Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. “We missed the chance then, and what was obvious is that it will go down the hill with democratic freedoms being more and more constrained.”
Budrys emphasized that the Lithuanian government wants to see concrete steps taken by Georgia’s authorities to restore the country’s democratic trajectory. This includes organizing fair elections again and recalling legislation that limits the activities of political opposition and NGOs.
“If not, we are heading in a very bad direction — and that’s only the responsibility of Georgian authorities right now,” Budrys said.
The Lithuanian Foreign Minister also rejected the idea of normalization with Georgia under current conditions. He suggested that future engagement could only be considered if the EU-Georgia relationship is “fundamentally redefined” and democratic conditions are restored.
**Georgian Dream Responds**
In response to Budrys’ remarks, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze dismissed the Lithuanian government as an “ordinary unit of the ‘deep state'”. This statement has been met with skepticism by many in Georgia and internationally.
Lithuania has been a strong supporter of Georgia’s democratic development and has imposed travel sanctions on several Georgian Dream officials. The country’s stance is seen as a reflection of its commitment to upholding democratic values and principles.
**Background**
Georgia’s democratic backsliding has been a concern for the international community in recent years. The use of force against peaceful protesters, flawed elections, and restrictions on civil society have all contributed to a growing sense of unease.
The EU has faced criticism for not taking stronger action against Georgia’s authorities. However, some argue that the bloc is still committed to supporting Georgia’s democratic development and integration into the European Union.
**Analysis**
Budrys’ statement highlights the complex and contentious nature of Georgia’s democratic situation. The Lithuanian government’s warning serves as a reminder to the EU and other international partners of the need to prioritize democratic values and principles when engaging with Georgia.
The reaction from Georgian Prime Minister Kobakhidze is seen by many as an attempt to deflect criticism rather than address the concerns raised by Lithuania.
As tensions between Lithuania and Georgia continue to escalate, it remains to be seen how the EU will respond to this situation. Will the bloc take stronger action against Georgia’s authorities, or will it continue to prioritize its own interests?
**Related Articles**
* Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania Expand Sanctions on Georgian Officials (April 15, 2025)
* “Existential Challenge” Looms over Georgia, President Zurabishvili Tells Lithuanian Seimas (March 25, 2025)
* Lithuania Sanctions Kobakhidze, 16 Other Officials Over Crackdown (December 15, 2024)
* Lithuanian Seimas Condemns Violence by GD Government Against Protesters, Calls for EU Sanctions (December 6, 2024)
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