PM: Ukraine’s "Maidan" scenario cannot happen in Georgia

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has stated that the scenario of a Ukrainian-style "Maidan" uprising will not be repeated in Georgia, emphasizing the strength of the country’s institutions and the wisdom of its people.

Speaking to reporters, Kobakhidze highlighted that radicals and their foreign supporters continue to look for opportunities to stir unrest and push Georgia toward a process similar to Ukraine’s 2013 "Maidan", Caliber.Az reports referring to foreign media.

However, he reassured the public, saying, “Unlike Ukraine in 2013, Georgia is an independent state with strong institutions, and most importantly, a wise and experienced people whose resolve cannot be shaken. The 'Maidan' scenario will not happen in Georgia. The state will not allow it.”

Kobakhidze also praised the actions of Georgia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs, which intervened during anti-government protests on November 29 to prevent an attack on the country’s constitutional order. “I want to thank the Minister of Internal Affairs, Vakhtang Gomelauri, and every police officer who prevented an attack on our constitutional order and defended the sovereignty and independence of Georgia,” he said.

The protests in Tbilisi, which turned into clashes between demonstrators and security forces on the nights of November 29 and 30, were triggered by Kobakhidze's announcement that the ruling party, "Georgian Dream - Democratic Georgia," had decided not to pursue negotiations on EU membership until at least 2028. This decision also included rejecting all EU financial grants.

The prime minister explained that these measures were a response to what he called the EU’s constant pressure over the potential initiation of membership talks, demands to revoke certain laws passed by the Georgian parliament, and calls for sanctions against Georgian officials.

Over the course of two days, approximately 150 people were arrested, and there were casualties on both sides as protests escalated outside the Georgian parliament. Security forces used water cannons and tear gas to disperse the crowds.

By Tamilla Hasanova