In Georgia, protests have been ongoing for six days, triggered by the government's announcement to halt the process of Euro-integration until 2028. Law enforcement continues to carry out harsh dispersals and detentions of demonstrators, utilizing water cannons and tear gas.
On the night of December 4, authorities conducted several dispersals. At five in the morning, a protest rally commenced near the Tbilisi City Hall in the Saburtalo district, writes NewSGeorgia. Participants who were pushed off Rustaveli Avenue moved there, while those at the back of the column were detained.
Law enforcement is actively apprehending and detaining protesters. As a result, individuals have split into small groups and are navigating through courtyards. Local residents have been allowing protesters into their homes to hide them from the authorities.
A truck driver blocked the waterfront in Tbilisi, effectively stopping special forces to protect the rally participants.
One video shows drivers of passing cars allowing protesters heading towards the Rustaveli metro to pass. The drivers express their support by honking their horns. The night of protests concluded at seven in the morning, giving the demonstrators some time to rest and sleep.
It is worth noting that protests in Georgia have intensified after the government decided on November 28 to abandon negotiations with the European Union regarding membership until the end of 2028 and to reject EU budget grants. Protesters accuse the government of halting the Euro-integration process and are demanding new parliamentary elections.
Overall, the situation in the country escalated at the end of October following the parliamentary elections. The struggle has been between the ruling party "Georgian Dream," which has governed the country for 12 years, and pro-European opposition political forces.
According to the Central Election Commission of Georgia, the ruling party, which is also considered pro-Russian, received over 54% of the votes, allowing it to unilaterally form a government. However, the opposition and the country's president, Salome Zourabichvili, have not recognized the election results due to reported mass ballot stuffing, manipulations, pressure, and attacks on opposition members, along with other blatant violations.
Previously, "Telegraph" published exclusive photos showing what a protest in Tbilisi looks like during the day. There are very few people on the streets of the city.