Georgia’s PM hits back as protests and resignations intensify

Georgia has seen a fourth night of protests after the ruling party suspended talks on joining the European Union. Tens of thousands took to the streets again on Sunday, voicing their opposition to the government’s decision. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze dismissed the protests, claiming they were based on lies and rejecting calls for new elections.

The protests intensified after the government, led by the Georgian Dream party, accused the EU of “blackmail” over the EU accession issue, postponing any talks until at least 2028. This led to the resignation of several key officials, including Georgia’s ambassador to the U.S., David Zalkaliani. The growing number of resignations and protests suggests mounting dissatisfaction with the government’s shift away from European integration.

The protests took a violent turn, with clashes between riot police and demonstrators. Police used water cannons to disperse crowds, and several journalists were injured during the protests. Georgian officials have been accused of democratic backsliding, with the EU and U.S. expressing concern over the situation. On Saturday, the U.S. suspended its strategic partnership with Georgia in response.

Despite this, Prime Minister Kobakhidze insisted the government remains committed to European integration. However, many public officials and civil servants disagree, with over 3,000 teachers and other workers protesting the decision.

The violence directed at journalists and protesters has shocked many, including Georgia’s human rights ombudsman, who condemned the actions as “brutality.” Former Georgian EU ambassador Natalie Sabanadze called the protests a “qualitative change,” noting the increased resistance against the government, reminiscent of the 2003 Rose Revolution.

Meanwhile, President Salome Zourabichvili, who is due to leave office soon, has become a rallying figure for the protesters. She and the opposition accuse the government of aligning with Russia, despite public support for EU membership.

Georgia, with a population of 3.7 million, has 20% of its territory under Russian occupation in two breakaway regions. The situation has worsened relations with the EU and U.S., with both warning of consequences. The ongoing crisis raises questions about Georgia’s political future and its path toward the EU.