In a joint statement the United States and European Union called on the Georgian authorities and the opposition to end a stalemate on the streets and to start talks without preconditions.

“The United States and the European Union urge Georgia’s government and opposition to end the current stalemate on the streets and begin negotiations immediately and without preconditions on a new program of reforms to invigorate Georgia’s democracy,” the statement released on May 25 reads.

“We call on all Georgians to respect the rule of law, abide by Georgia’s Constitution, avoid violence, and honor the right of peaceful protest. The European Union and the United States pledge our full support for all such efforts aimed at strengthening Georgia’s democratic freedom and prosperity, and reiterate our unyielding support for Georgia’s independence and territorial integrity.