The Georgian government has issued a statement in response to sanctions imposed by Lithuania and Estonia on senior Georgian officials.

The statement emphasizes that the Georgian government has the right and opportunity to "counteract the aforementioned anti-Georgian decision" made by both governments. However, it expresses that, out of respect for the Lithuanian and Estonian people, such a response is not deemed advisable. Therefore, "they will maintain a unilateral friendship regime" with both states.

Additionally, the Georgian government characterizes Estonia and Lithuania as countries with "the most limited sovereignty in the European Union," claiming that their governments act not in the interests of their citizens but rather under the influence of a foreign administration.

"This is the primary reason the governments of these states are compelled to act against their own dignity. It is unfortunate that, despite 33 years of independence, Lithuania and Estonia have yet to overcome the Soviet mentality. We wish our friendly Estonian and Lithuanian peoples a strengthening of their sovereignty and all the best in 2025!" the Georgian government’s statement concludes.

The sanctions target several high-ranking Georgian officials, including Irakli Kobakhidze.