Georgia is not yet a member of the European Union; however, the country has held EU candidate status and has been perceived as a potential member within the enlargement process. Therefore, the requirements, criteria, related statements, and decisions are viewed in this context, said Irakli Pavlenishvili, a member of the United National Movement.

According to him, any country seeking membership in a particular union must fulfil specific obligations.

“The United States has no direct institutional ties with the European Union beyond partnership relations, so this is a different case. The ongoing process involving Georgia is fundamentally different. I am also confident that Kaja Kallas believes those individuals were not subject to sanctions, as they have not committed actions that would justify such measures. In Georgia’s case, however, she sees democracy being undermined. When you seek EU membership, you are bound by certain rules. Does candidate status mean having no institutional ties with the EU at all? If you consider yourself a potential member of this major union and maintain institutional connections, then you must adhere to its rules and obligations. There are clear criteria. If a country does not want membership, it may sever ties—no visa-free travel, no free trade—but this is what Ivanishvili wants, and it is not what the Georgian people want,” Pavlenishvili stated.

For reference, the US State Department has imposed entry bans on five individuals accused of censoring content on American online platforms. One of those affected is former European Commissioner Thierry Breton.

In response, the European Commission issued a statement saying: “We have requested clarifications from the U.S. authorities and remain engaged. If needed, we will respond swiftly and decisively to defend our regulatory autonomy against unjustified measures.”

Subsequently, the US decision was condemned by EU leaders. The EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, stated that “The decision by the U.S. to impose travel restrictions on European citizens and officials is unacceptable and an attempt to challenge our sovereignty. Europe will keep defending its values — freedom of expression, fair digital rules, and the right to regulate our own space.”