Putin looks to halt neighboring Georgia’s Western ambitions in vital election

Georgia is gearing up for crucial parliamentary elections, with Russian President Vladimir Putin closely watching. The country, torn between Russian influence and aspirations to join the EU, faces high stakes. The upcoming elections offer Putin a chance to maintain his grip on Georgia. A bipartisan group of U.S. senators is supporting Georgian efforts to align with the West. Observers believe this election will be significant, with the ruling party framing it as a choice between war and peace. Russia’s interest lies in keeping the current government in power, while everyday Georgians lean towards the EU. If the ruling party wins, it could spell disaster for Georgia’s EU aspirations. The party has been accused of being dependent on Russian money, with donors linked to the Kremlin.