Protesters demanding Georgia's return to Eurointegration are becoming "targets of law enforcement and informal violent groups," according to the EU.
"Worrying reports from civil society organizations and Georgia's Public Defender indicate brutal and deliberate violence, raising justified concerns about torture and inhumane treatment. Despite these reports, no police officers or members of informal violent groups have been held accountable," the statement said.
The EU urged the ruling party "Georgian Dream" to pursue de-escalation, organize the immediate release of all detainees, and uphold individuals' rights to political freedom. The ruling regime was reminded that its actions have already led to negative consequences for Tbilisi's relations with Brussels and warned that these could worsen.
"The EU will consider additional measures at the upcoming Foreign Affairs Council meeting on December 16," the diplomatic service concluded.
On December 9, the United Kingdom announced that it would suspend all aid programs to the Georgian government and limit defense cooperation and interactions with the Georgian government.