In a joint statement, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos criticized Georgia’s October 4 municipal elections, citing a “crackdown on dissent.”

They highlighted raids on media, restrictive laws against civil society, opposition arrests, and electoral changes favoring the ruling party, which they say undermined fair competition. The EU also noted the Georgian government's failure to invite international monitors like OSCE/ODIHR in time and a repressive environment that deterred local observers.

Calling for the release of those “arbitrarily detained,” the EU urged calm, respect for civil liberties, and inclusive political dialogue. The statement also rejected disinformation about the EU’s role in Georgia and condemned personal attacks on the EU ambassador.