In a dramatic turn of events, thousands of protesters filled the streets of Tbilisi early Friday morning, voicing their anger at the government's unexpected decision to suspend its path toward European Union membership for the next four years.
Protests Surge in Georgia Following EU Accession Suspension
Protests Surge in Georgia Following EU Accession Suspension
Mass demonstrations erupted in Tbilisi as the Georgian government announced a halt to EU membership discussions, shifting towards closer ties with Russia.
As tensions rose in Georgia, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze informed citizens that the government would put the EU accession process on hold until 2028. This unexpected announcement exacerbated divisions between the ruling Georgian Dream party, which is leaning closer to Russia and China, and the opposition, which advocates for stronger ties with the West.
Following the announcement on Thursday, demonstrators gathered outside the Parliament building, blocking the main avenue while chanting slogans against the government. "Slaves" and "Russians" echoed through the streets as protesters expressed their dissatisfaction with the government's pivot away from Europe.
Police quickly responded, deploying water cannons and tear gas to disperse the crowds. The Interior Ministry reported that 43 individuals were detained during the protests and that 32 police officers sustained injuries. Activists remained determined, with plans for further protests anticipated throughout the country.
Georgia has historically been a geopolitical pawn, situated at the juncture of powerful nations. The current unrest follows a controversial victory by the Georgian Dream party in the parliamentary elections held in October, which many viewed as illegitimate, increasing the discontent among the populace.
