The European Union is considering suspending Georgia's visa-free travel privileges due to concerns over the country's democratic backsliding and the introduction of a controversial "foreign agents" law. This law requires media outlets and NGOs receiving more than 20% of their funding from abroad to register as foreign agents, a move the EU views as undermining democratic standards. The visa-free regime, in place since 2017, is at risk unless the Georgian government, led by the ruling Georgian Dream party, repeals repressive laws and aligns with European democratic values. The European Commission plans to send an official warning letter to Tbilisi by August 31, threatening to reinstate visa requirements if demands are not met. The EU's ultimatum emphasizes the need for Georgia to halt its authoritarian shift and protect civil rights. Meanwhile, Georgian Prime Minister Kobakhidze criticized the EU's stance, asserting that Georgia's laws on family values, protection of minors, and transparency are justified and defended. Additionally, amid tensions with the EU, Georgia is reportedly considering joining China's CIPS payment system as the EU contemplates further sanctions, including a potential SWIFT ban following recent election outcomes unfavorable to the bloc. The situation places Georgia at a crossroads between maintaining its European integration aspirations and responding to internal political pressures.