Georgian PM Rejects Protest Demands Amid Intensifying Unrest and Resignations

Georgia continues to be engulfed in political turmoil as thousands protest nightly against the ruling party’s decision to suspend European Union membership talks, a move that has led to high-profile resignations and mounting unrest.

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has dismissed accusations that the government has halted its EU accession push, calling such claims opposition-driven “lies.” This follows Georgian Dream’s earlier declaration accusing the EU of “blackmail” and stating the issue would not be revisited until at least 2028.

David Zalkaliani, Georgia’s ambassador to the United States, is among the latest to resign, citing “considerable pressure.” His departure follows similar resignations by other officials amid the escalating crisis.

Demonstrations in the capital, Tbilisi, and other cities entered their fourth consecutive night on Sunday. Tensions flared when fireworks were launched at parliament and riot police, prompting a forceful response with water cannons. By early Monday, authorities had dispersed the crowds on Rustaveli Avenue, detaining multiple protesters, including opposition leader Zurab Japaridze.

The Georgian Interior Ministry reported that 21 officers were injured in the clashes, while President Salome Zourabichvili, a vocal critic of the ruling party, accused authorities of subjecting arrested protesters to beatings, with many reportedly sustaining serious injuries.

The protests highlight growing frustration with Georgian Dream’s perceived retreat from EU integration and accusations of increasing authoritarianism. The demonstrators demand early elections and the reinstatement of a pro-EU agenda.

With no signs of the protests abating and calls for government accountability mounting, Georgia faces a crucial test of its democratic resilience