Pro-Putin party wins contested election as Georgia drifts further from US, Europe

Georgia’s pro-Western president is urging citizens to protest the disputed outcome of recent parliamentary elections, which she believes was a gift to Russian President Putin. The election results are concerning for a country hoping to join the EU and align more closely with the West. Some suspect Russian interference in the election, though there is no concrete evidence yet. The U.S. is supporting Georgia’s pro-European president, condemning election irregularities. Georgian Dream, the Russian-backed party, claimed victory, sparking allegations of fraud. Protests have already begun, with potential for escalation. Many Georgians aspire to join the EU, but progress has been hindered by controversial laws. U.S. sanctions have been imposed in response to anti-democratic actions in Georgia.