Mass protests erupted in Tbilisi after the Georgian government announced a delay in EU membership talks until 2028. Demonstrations began Thursday, intensifying Friday, as thousands gathered outside the Parliament building, waving EU and Georgian flags. Protesters accuse the ruling Georgian Dream party of democratic backsliding and pro-Russian policies.
Clashes erupted as riot police used rubber bullets, tear gas, and water cannons to disperse crowds. The Interior Ministry reported 32 police injuries and 43 arrests for disobeying orders and hooliganism. Opposition figures Elene Khoshtaria and Nana Malashkhia sustained injuries during the protests. International criticism followed, with Ukraine, Poland, and the Council of Europe condemning the government’s actions.
Allegations of election fraud in October 2024 and freezing of EU accession talks by Brussels earlier this year have exacerbated tensions. Polls show 80% of Georgians support EU membership, which remains delayed until at least 2030, according to Prime Minister Kobakhidze.