Zakharova Compares US Responses to Protests in Armenia and Georgia

Maria Zakharova, the official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry, has compared the statements from the US embassies in Armenia and Georgia regarding the mass protests occurring in both countries.

Zakharova suggested observing the differences between the statements made on June 13 in Armenia and May 2 in Georgia. “We urge demonstrators to exercise their right to gather responsibly, refraining from any manifestation of violence. The resolution of political disagreements is ensured through democratic processes. We also encourage law enforcement to maintain public order while guaranteeing citizens' rights to freedom of speech and assembly, and to investigate any incidents involving potential procedural violations, including those involving journalists covering the protests,” the statement from the US Embassy in Armenia reads.

In contrast, the statement regarding the protests in Georgia reads: “We stand with the people of Georgia in supporting their right to have their voices heard. We condemn the violence against peaceful protesters, including journalists covering the demonstrations. The use of force to suppress peaceful gatherings and freedom of speech is unacceptable, and we call on the authorities to allow peaceful protesters to continue exercising their rights to freedom of speech.”

“Here lies the essence of democracy. In one case, Washington, through its embassy, states that protests must be held with total responsibility and does not condemn the authorities for suppressing them, while in the other case, it actively supports the disorder organized by Western foreign agents. This is a clear depiction of the ‘rules-based world order’ where the United States, with a mere wave of the hand, alters any ‘rule’ to suit its convenience based on the circumstances at that moment,” Zakharova concluded.