Protests in Georgia enter fourth day: What's happening now?
Photo: the fourth day of protests against the authorities in Georgia (t.me/ekho_kavkaza)
Protests continue in Georgia for the fourth day against the disruption of EU integration. Demonstrators have not dispersed despite attempts by security forces to break up the protests, according to Echo of the Caucasus and First Channel of Georgia.
As of the morning of December 1, large-scale protests continue in Tbilisi and other cities in Georgia against the ruling party, Georgian Dream. The protests were triggered by the government's announcement to halt the EU integration process until 2028.
In the Georgian capital, protesters continue their rally on Chavchavadze Avenue. Despite attempts to disperse them by force, many Georgians remained in the streets overnight. Protesters in Tbilisi are lighting bonfires to keep warm.
This morning, protesters gathered near the building of Tbilisi State University. Prior to that, they had been standing in front of the Philharmonic, having moved there from Rustaveli Avenue.
The participants are calling on citizens to join the rally.
According to media reports, a photojournalist from the public broadcaster and Reuters, Irakli Gedenidze, was injured during yesterday's protest in Tbilisi. He was reportedly hit in the leg by what is believed to be a firework.
Protests in Georgia
As a reminder, on November 28, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced that the country would not begin EU accession talks until at least 2028. This decision sparked protests that have now been ongoing for the fourth day.
The protests have been accompanied by clashes with law enforcement, who are attempting to disperse the crowds by force. The situation worsened further on the evening of November 30. Protesters in Tbilisi used fireworks and various objects against the police, while law enforcement deployed water cannons and tear gas several times.
It was also reported that protesters built barricades, and a fire broke out in the Georgian parliament building.
Georgian diplomats are resigning due to the government's failure to proceed with EU integration. Meanwhile, the United States has suspended its strategic partnership with Georgia.
