Mikheil Saakashvili, the former president of Georgia, has received a new prison sentence of four-and-a-half years for illegally crossing the border in 2021, adding to his existing sentences totaling over 12 years for embezzlement and abuse of power. Saakashvili, who denies any wrongdoing, claims the sentences are politically motivated. He has called for protests against the Georgian government and has been supported by rights groups and the European Union, which demand his release due to concerns over his health.