Georgia’s health ministry has reported that 26 individuals, including 23 protesters and three law enforcement officers, were injured during the latest night of anti-government demonstrations in the capital, Tbilisi.
The protests, now in their fifth consecutive day, erupted after Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced the government’s decision to postpone talks on European Union accession until 2028.
The move has angered pro-EU supporters, who accuse the ruling Georgian Dream party of stalling the country’s integration with the West.
The ministry confirmed that none of the injuries sustained on Monday night were life-threatening, though some of the injured remain under medical supervision.
The protests turned violent as riot police used tear gas to disperse demonstrators, who responded by firing fireworks toward the officers.
The clashes continued into the early hours of Tuesday, pointing to the escalating standoff between the government and mostly young pro-EU activists.
International observers have expressed concern about the situation. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights criticized what he described as the “disproportionate” use of force by Georgian authorities. Western governments have also raised questions about the country’s handling of the protests.
The demonstrations are part of a broader political crisis that has gripped Georgia since a contested election in October.
Tensions have mounted as opposition groups accuse the Georgian Dream party of undermining the country’s European aspirations in favour of closer ties with Russia.
Protesters have vowed to continue their demonstrations until the government reverses its decision on EU accession talks.
26 injured in Georgia’s anti-government protest over EU accession delay