Violent clashes erupt in Tbilisi as protesters demand EU talks resumption 43 arrested

Georgian law enforcement authorities arrested 43 individuals during a protest in central Tbilisi against the government's decision to delay EU accession talks until 2028.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia, 32 police officers were injured during the protest, Caliber.Az reports.

The demonstration began outside the Georgian Parliament on November 29 around 7:00 PM.

Some of the injured officers sustained serious head, eye, and body injuries, with 13 requiring surgical treatment.

The protest was organized by those opposing the government's decision to postpone negotiations with the European Union.

Furthermore, due to the mass protests against the government, the leadership of the Georgian Parliament has decided to bolster security measures, including closing access to the legislative building in Tbilisi.

"From today, November 29, a red security level has been introduced in the Parliament building, which will remain in place until it is lifted. During this red level, no one will be allowed entry to the Georgian Parliament except for those authorized by the head of the Parliament apparatus, based on the nature of the threat," the statement reads. 

Notably, Georgia will delay its European Union accession talks until 2028, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced on November 28. Speaking from the headquarters of the ruling Georgian Dream Party in Tbilisi, Kobakhidze stated that while Georgia is proud of its history, it will not accept the EU’s view of integration as a favour.

He reaffirmed the country’s goal to join the EU by 2030, though he acknowledged the challenges ahead.

The Prime Minister also criticized European politicians for meddling in Georgia's domestic affairs, particularly regarding a controversial foreign influence law that disrupted EU accession talks.

He accused some European officials of using the promise of EU membership and financial aid as leverage to impose their own demands.

As a result, Georgia will postpone EU negotiations and reject EU financial assistance until 2028. However, the government intends to continue fulfilling its obligations under the EU’s Free Trade Agreement and aims to complete 90% of these by 2028, entering the EU with a strong economy and democratic institutions.

By Aghakazim Guliyev