Protesters gathered near Georgia’s parliament in central Tbilisi, and the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs reported that roughly ten windows on the building’s facade were broken during the demonstrators’ actions. The disturbance underscored the volatile moment in the capital as police and demonstrators faced off near the legislative complex. [MIA]
The ministry described the violence of the actions, noting that the iron fence surrounding the legislative building had been damaged with stones and other projectiles, and that glass was shattered in several places. The description came as officers attempted to manage the crowd and keep onlookers safe from harm. [MIA]
The Interior Ministry added that demonstrators had in their possession pyrotechnics and heavier objects intended for use against police, warning that such tactics could reappear. It urged participants to protest peacefully and within the bounds of the law. [MIA]
Since November 28, protests have spread in Tbilisi and other cities after the authorities announced that negotiations on Georgia’s EU membership would be suspended until 2028. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze argued that the move reflected unacceptable actions by European politicians who used grants and loans as a form of leverage, and he criticized the European Parliament for insulting Georgia for years. [MIA]
The decision was met with strong dissent from pro-Western opposition leaders who denounced the government’s move as a betrayal of national interests. President Salome Zurabishvili, renowned for her support of European integration, condemned the government and joined protesters in front of the parliament on November 28, stating that she would not resign, even though her term was nearing its end on November 30. The presidency emphasized the importance of upholding democratic norms and the will of the people, while stressing the need for peaceful expression of grievances. [MIA]
Eight Russians were detained in Georgia in the course of the unfolding events, a detail confirmed by authorities as part of ongoing security operations. The government said investigations would continue, and officials urged calm and lawful behavior from all participants as the situation developed. [MIA]