House Passes Caucasus Monitor Measures

The House has passed legislation requiring the Trump administration to assess Russian and Chinese intelligence activity and influence networks in Georgia, escalating congressional pressure on Tbilisi as Georgia deepens ties with Beijing.

H.R. 7668, the “Countering China’s Control of the Caucasus Act,” passed June 8 under suspension of the rules. The bill would require reports on Russian and Chinese intelligence assets in Georgia, areas of Moscow-Beijing cooperation in the country, and a five-year U.S. strategy for relations with Tbilisi. The measure, sponsored by Reps. Joe Wilson, R-S.C. and  Steve Cohen, D-Tenn now goes to the Senate.

The vote came one day before China and Georgia announced that they had elevated relations to a “comprehensive strategic partnership,” marking a new phase in a relationship that already included visa-free travel, direct flights and expanding trade ties. China’s Foreign Ministry said President Xi Jinping and Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili announced the upgrade June 9 while marking the 34th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

House supporters framed the bill as support for Georgian citizens rather than a punitive measure against the country. Lawmakers cited democratic backsliding under Georgian Dream, Russia’s continued occupation of parts of Georgia, and China’s expanding role in strategic infrastructure, including the Anaklia deep-water port project. .

"Georgia is a brave, long-standing ally of the United States, and its population absolutely supports a strong relationship with the West," said Rep. Wilson.