The Biden administration has sanctioned Bidzina Ivanishvili, founder of Georgia’s ruling Georgian Dream party, accusing him of undermining the country’s democratic and pro-Western future in favor of Russia.

The sanctions include asset freezes and travel bans, targeting Ivanishvili and his associates.

The U.S. condemned the party’s actions under his leadership, including repressing protests and opposition figures.

Georgian Dream has been criticized for becoming more authoritarian and aligning with Moscow, especially after passing laws restricting free speech and LGBTQ+ rights, the Associated Press has reported.

The EU recently suspended Georgia’s EU membership application process in response.

Written by B.C. Begley