**Georgia’s President Warns EU: Don’t Let Democracy Slip Away**
In an open letter to European Union leaders, Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili has sounded the alarm about her country’s democratic crisis. She warned that if the EU doesn’t take decisive action, it will lose a strategic partner and set a dangerous precedent for Russian interference on Europe’s borders.
The situation in Georgia is critical, according to Zurabishvili. Rigged elections have led to a quasi-totalitarian system, with Russia attempting to subjugate the country through propaganda, indirect interference, and control over state institutions. The president urged EU leaders to assess the situation, unequivocally support the Georgian people, and take coordinated political steps.
**A Crisis for Europe Itself**
Zurabishvili emphasized that this is not just an internal crisis in Georgia but a challenge to Europe’s democratic vision. She noted that Russia has made similar attempts in other countries, such as Moldova and Romania, and warned that the EU should reassess its strategy to counter Russian interference.
The Caucasus region remains crucial for the EU’s future enlargement, with ongoing positive processes between Armenia and Azerbaijan creating new opportunities. However, Russia seeks to maintain exclusive influence by controlling Georgia’s government. By doing so, it obstructs the formation of a peaceful and united Caucasus open to closer cooperation with the EU.
**A Call to Action**
The president urged EU leaders to act swiftly and decisively:
* Assess the situation in Georgia as an authoritarian seizure of power and a strategic shift toward alliance with Russia.
* Clearly and unconditionally support the Georgian people, who stand against cruelty and fear.
* Act with coordinated political steps, clearly, unanimously, and effectively, as demanded by European Parliament resolutions.
**A Matter of Urgency**
Zurabishvili emphasized that the time for strategic patience has ended. Moral courage and political clarity are now necessary to save Georgia’s democratic future, Europe’s credibility, and geopolitical integrity, which hang by a thread.
