Large-scale protests begin in Georgia: protesters storm the presidential palace
4 October 21:03
In Georgia, on Saturday afternoon, October 4, protests broke out against the backdrop of local government elections. Demonstrators first took to the streets of Tbilisi, blocking Rustaveli Avenue, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports, citing local media.
By the evening, the protests became more widespread and destructive. There are already reports of injuries, including among law enforcement officers, and several people have been detained. Property of street cafes on Orbeliani Square was destroyed.
The protesters called on citizens to seize state institutions, announcing that they would first occupy the presidential residence. They criticized the government and were dissatisfied with the election results.
At some point, the angry crowd broke through the iron fence and entered the courtyard of the Orbeliani Palace. The protesters began throwing stones at the building, forcing the riot police to use water cannons, tear gas grenades, and pepper spray.
The rallies were triggered by the Georgian Dream party’s announcement of victory in the elections and the decision to suspend the country’s European integration course. Demonstrators demanded the resignation of the government and the resumption of the movement towards the EU. Security forces are using batons and water cannons, and new protesters are gathering in the capital.
The main claim of the protesters is to stop the course of European integration. They accuse the authorities of close ties with Russia.
