“The relations with the United States are being reset, as demonstrated by the appointment of a new ambassador,” stated Vladimer Bozhadze, a member of Georgian Dream.

Bozhadze responded to criticism from members of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee—Democrat Jeanne Shaheen and Republican Roger Wicker—who accused the Georgian Dream government of aggressively consolidating power by suppressing independent voices through actions reminiscent of the Lukashenko regime.

“This is an unfair characterization of Georgia. Unfortunately, some who claim to be friends of Georgia have aligned themselves with the radical opposition. We have begun to reset relations with the United States; the appointment of a new ambassador serves as proof. I remain hopeful that these relations will grow stronger despite such harsh remarks,” Bozhadze stated.