“Georgia’s Election Pits Pro-Western Hopes Against Rising Russian Influence”

Georgia’s recent election has exposed deep national divides, with voters split over aligning with Europe or strengthening ties with Russia. The ruling Georgian Dream party, unlikely to secure a supermajority, aims to enact conservative constitutional changes if it consolidates power. The opposition, advocating for closer ties to the EU and NATO, faces difficulty coordinating its efforts but remains determined to push back against Georgian Dream’s influence.

The election holds regional implications as Georgia’s Western aspirations are at stake. European leaders have paused Georgia’s EU accession and threatened visa restrictions, while Moscow has extended visa-free travel and work rights for Georgians, strengthening its influence. Former Prime Minister Ivanishvili’s comments blaming the opposition for the 2008 Russia-Georgia war and suggesting an apology to South Ossetia have fueled tensions. Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili has described the election as “existential,” fearing potential impeachment if the governing party prevails. The outcome will shape Georgia’s geopolitical path for the coming decade.