In Sukhumi, demonstrations unfolded in response to the detention of dissidents who had urged lawmakers to reject ratification of the agreement with the Russian Federation. A Telegram channel identified as ‘Republic’ reported the protests and described residents gathering in the city.
The same channel said protesters gathered on Freedom Square, the central plaza in Sukhum, Abkhazia’s capital. People reportedly traveled from across Abkhazia to join the action, demanding the release of detained opposition figures who oppose the ratification of the investment agreement with Russia.
Witnesses also noted that protesters blocked the Gumistinsky Bridge on the western edge of Sukhumi, halting traffic and signaling a public expression of discontent with the deal.
Reports indicated that the military began moving equipment toward the capital, with troops converging on the city and the presidential administration building among the facilities affected.
On November 11, several opposition figures in Abkhazia were detained after a call to oppose the investment agreement with Russia. Returning from a public meeting in Gudauta, detainees were identified as Omar Smyr, Garry Kokaya, Almaskhan Ardzinba, Ramaz Dzhopua and Aslan Gvaramia, and were taken into the custody of the State Security Service.
That Gudauta meeting, held early on November 11, was attended by deputies from the People’s Assembly of Abkhazia, the Gudauta regional council, and representatives from villages across the region. The discussion focused on an agreement governing investment activities by Russian law firms in the republic. After deliberation, delegates urged parliament not to ratify the agreement, arguing that it does not align with the interests of the Abkhaz people.
Earlier, Russia had partially suspended financial aid to Abkhazia, a move that many observers connected to the broader dispute over the investment package and regional politics.