Georgia accuses protesters of plotting violence to disrupt presidential election
Georgian police use water cannons and tear gas canisters to disperse protesters, who attempted to surround the Parliament building in opposition to the government’s decision to delay European Union (EU) accession negotiations until 2028 in Tbilisi, Georgia on November 29, 2024.( AA Photo)
Georgia’s State Security Service has alleged that violent actions during ongoing protests in Tbilisi aim to disrupt the presidential election scheduled for Dec. 14.
Key developments in Georgia
- Protests in Tbilisi:
Demonstrations erupted following the government’s decision to delay negotiations on European Union accession until 2028. While the number of protesters has dwindled in recent days, authorities claim certain groups are seeking to escalate tensions. - Alleged plans for violence:
The State Security Service claims that masked individuals recently attacked police, journalists, and civilians, describing these incidents as attempts to incite chaos and overthrow the government. - Election disruption concerns:
Authorities say there is a coordinated effort involving criminal groups to use violence during protests to prevent the Dec. 14 presidential election. Reports allege plans to kill two or three protesters this week to fuel unrest. - Foreign interference allegations:
The statement accused foreign intelligence services and local actors of orchestrating events, likening the situation to so-called “color revolutions.” The damage to security cameras in Tbilisi was also cited as an indication of growing tension.
Government’s decision on EU negotiations
The protests were sparked by the government’s Nov. 28 announcement to delay EU accession talks until 2028.
- Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze accused European politicians of meddling in Georgia’s internal affairs and using EU funds for political leverage.
- He assured that Georgia remains committed to joining the EU by 2030.
International reactions
- United States: The U.S. Department of State announced a suspension of strategic relations with Georgia and warned of potential sanctions.
- European Union: Kaja Kallas, the EU’s high representative for foreign sffairs, expressed solidarity with anti-government protesters.
- Baltic Nations: Some Georgian officials have been banned from entering Baltic states.
- Ukraine: President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a decree imposing sanctions on Prime Minister Kobakhidze and other Georgian officials.
Background
Protests have continued for 13 days, fueled by opposition demands for EU alignment and backlash against the government’s decision. The situation remains volatile, with international and regional actors closely monitoring developments.
