**Georgia’s Plea to Europe: Stand United Against Kremlin-Backed Regime**
At the European People’s Party (EPP) Congress, Tina Bokuchava, chairwoman of the United National Movement, delivered a passionate speech highlighting Georgia’s struggle against Russian-backed oppression. The key message was clear: Europe must stand united against a common enemy and take decisive action to stop the Kremlin’s hybrid war against Georgia.
**A Seat Empty in Our Delegation**
Bokuchava began by noting that one seat in their delegation remains empty, reserved for Georgia’s third president, Mikheil Saakashvili. This man, who stood up to Putin during the 2008 Russian invasion of Georgia, is now serving his fourth year in political prison. His courage and commitment to European values are a testament to the Georgian people’s resilience in the face of Kremlin-organized terror.
**A War on Two Fronts**
While Putin wages a brutal war against Ukraine, he is waging a hybrid war against Georgia, aiming to destroy their EU candidacy and integration process. The regime has responded with brutal violence and repression, resulting in the arrest of over 500 people, including more than 50 who remain in political imprisonment. The Georgian government has been accused of systematically ill-treating and torturing detainees, passing draconian laws, and raiding activists’ private homes to instill fear and silence dissent.
**The Heart of Europe Still Beats in Tbilisi**
Despite the regime’s best efforts, protests continue unabated for 153 days. Bokuchava proudly declared that the heart of Europe still beats in Tbilisi, as Georgians show resilience and courage in their pursuit of a common European future. However, this requires more than just words; it demands decisive action from Europe.
**Sanctions Against the Kremlin-Backed Regime**
Bokuchava called for individual, targeted sanctions against Bidzina Ivanishvili and his Kremlin-backed friends. She emphasized that Putinist regimes thrive on complacency and division, and that only a united and decisive Europe can stop the man who brought war back to the European continent.
**Europe Must Lead with Unity and Action**
In conclusion, Bokuchava urged Europe to lead with unity and decisive action. The European People’s Party must do its job in creating a united, free, and peaceful Europe. The time for complacency is over; it’s time for action. As Bokuchava said, “Europe will be a leader, and the European People’s Party will once again do its job.”
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