The European Council criticized the Georgian government over the adoption of a law on “foreign agents” in the country.

“The adopted Law on Transparency of Foreign Influence represents a departure from the steps outlined in the Commission's recommendation for granting candidate status. We call on the Georgian authorities to clarify their intentions by changing the current course of action, which jeopardizes Georgia’s path to the EU and de facto leads to a halt in the accession process,” says the conclusion following the European Council summit.

The European Council also called on the Georgian authorities to ensure that “free and fair” parliamentary elections are held this fall.

On June 6, the US State Department announced the first package of sanctions imposed for supporting the law on foreign agents. The sanctions involve visa restrictions and will affect members of the Georgian Dream, members of parliament, law enforcement officers and private individuals. In total, up to 30 people are subject to their effect.