Georgia Halts EU Talks Until 2028; Protests Erupt, 43 Arrested in Clashes

Nov 29, 2024, 12:45 AM

Georgia has announced it will suspend its European Union accession talks until the end of 2028, as stated by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, who accused the EU of 'blackmail.' The government also declared it would decline any EU budget grants during this period. This move follows the European Parliament's adoption of a resolution that does not recognize the legitimacy of Georgia's parliamentary elections due to significant irregularities and has called for new elections. The announcement has sparked widespread protests across the country, particularly in the capital Tbilisi. Thousands of demonstrators gathered outside the Parliament building, the Georgian Dream party headquarters, and other key locations, expressing their opposition to the government's decision to halt the EU integration process, which they view as a betrayal of the country's interests. Protesters built barricades and used green lasers against police. Clashes between protesters and police ensued, lasting throughout the night, with law enforcement deploying tear gas, water cannons, pepper spray, and batons to disperse the crowds. Authorities reported that 43 protesters were arrested, and 32 police officers were injured. Several journalists were also injured during the confrontations. President Salome Zurabishvili has scheduled emergency meetings with diplomats amid the unfolding crisis. Protests have spread to other cities, including Batumi, Kutaisi, and Zugdidi, as citizens demand the continuation of EU membership talks. The opposition has called for mass demonstrations, and civil society representatives have urged the European Union to disregard the government's announcement and continue supporting Georgia's integration into the EU.