Violent clashes between demonstrators and police in Tbilisi escalate as Georgia's European aspirations hang in the balance.
According to CBS News, the third consecutive night of protests in Georgia's capital has resulted in 44 hospitalizations, including 27 protesters, 16 police officers, and one media worker, as citizens react to the government's decision to suspend EU accession talks.
The demonstrations erupted after Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced the suspension of EU negotiations, a move that came in response to the European Parliament's criticism of Georgia's recent general election. The protests have grown increasingly intense, with demonstrators burning an effigy of Bidzina Ivanishvili, the Georgian Dream party founder, outside the parliament building.
Government Defiance Sparks National Crisis
Prime Minister Kobakhidze has taken a confrontational stance toward both protesters and international criticism. His administration has dismissed the U.S. State Department's decision to suspend its strategic partnership with Georgia. The situation has led to diplomatic upheaval, with Georgia's ambassador to the U.S., David Zalkaliani, becoming the latest official to resign.
The government's position has created a deepening rift between state authorities and pro-European citizens. Kobakhidze defended his decision by characterizing European criticism as "shameful and offensive blackmail" while maintaining that Georgia's European integration hasn't been halted.
President Salome Zourabichvili offered a stark assessment of the situation. Speaking with journalists, she expressed grave concerns about the country's direction, stating:
We are not demanding a revolution. We are asking for new elections, but in conditions that will ensure that the will of the people will not be misrepresented or stolen again.
International Response Intensifies Pressure
The European Union has responded firmly to Georgia's decision. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and enlargement commissioner Marta Kos released a joint statement expressing serious concerns about Georgia's democratic backsliding. They urged authorities to respect fundamental rights and refrain from using force against peaceful protesters.
The October 26 parliamentary election remains a major point of contention. Opposition forces claim the vote was manipulated with Russian assistance, suggesting Moscow's attempt to maintain influence over its former territory. The election's disputed outcome has led to an opposition boycott of parliament.
The EU granted Georgia candidate status in December 2023, with specific conditions attached. However, earlier this year, the bloc suspended financial support following Georgia's passage of a controversial "foreign influence" law that many viewed as detrimental to democratic freedoms.
Police Confrontation Escalates Tensions
The demonstrations have turned increasingly violent, with protesters throwing stones and setting off fireworks near parliament. Law enforcement has responded with water cannons and tear gas to disperse the crowds. Prime Minister Kobakhidze issued a stern warning that lawbreakers would face severe consequences.
The Interior Ministry's report of 44 hospitalizations underscores the growing intensity of the confrontations. The use of force by both sides has raised international concerns about potential human rights violations and the deterioration of democratic norms.
The protests have revealed deep divisions within Georgian society regarding the country's political future. Many citizens view EU integration as crucial for breaking away from Russian influence and securing democratic reforms.
Crossroads of Democracy
The ongoing crisis in Tbilisi represents a critical moment for Georgia's democratic future, as tens of thousands of citizens protest Prime Minister Kobakhidze's decision to suspend EU accession talks. The demonstrations, which have led to dozens of hospitalizations and violent confrontations outside parliament, reflect the population's strong desire for European integration.
The government's stance has triggered international consequences, including the suspension of U.S. strategic partnership and concerns from EU leadership about democratic backsliding. As protests continue and diplomatic tensions rise, Georgia faces crucial decisions about its political direction and relationship with both Western allies and neighboring Russia.
