“We hope that not only sanctions will be imposed on Bidzina Ivanishvili quickly, but that other legal measures will also be taken,” stated Levan Sanikidze, one of the leaders of the United National Movement, commenting on MEP Michael Gahler’s statement.

Sanikidze emphasized that France is particularly sensitive for Ivanishvili due to his French citizenship.

“We recall how Ivanishvili was cautious about his French passport before 2012, seeing it as a potential escape plan to bypass certain sanctions. Given that his family lives in France and he owns property there, a strong statement from the French government is naturally very damaging. Ivanishvili is especially sensitive to sanctions from France, the United States, and the United Kingdom, and the impact these countries can have speaks for itself. We welcome this development and hope not only sanctions but also other legal actions will be pursued swiftly,” Sanikidze said.

His remarks came in response to MEP Michael Gahler, who stated that “if Orban is blocking EU measures, executives from remaining member states should take measures against Ivanishvili’s regime.”