Georgia's ex-president Mikheil Saakashvili, who is in jail and in poor health, is a key figure in Georgia's bid for EU membership amid allegations of being poisoned.
Key Points
Former Georgian president Mikheil Saakashvili is in jail and in poor health.
Georgia is seeking membership in the European Union.
Saakashvili's supporters claim he was poisoned.
Pros
Georgia's bid for EU membership signifies its desire for closer ties with Europe.
Highlighting the plight of the former president may draw attention to human rights concerns in Georgia.
Cons
Complications surrounding Saakashvili's treatment may hinder Georgia's EU membership aspirations.
Allegations of poisoning could strain Georgia's relationship with Western countries.