What's happened
Georgia is experiencing widespread protests following Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze's announcement to delay EU accession talks until 2028. Demonstrators accuse the ruling Georgian Dream party of betraying the nation's pro-European aspirations and moving closer to Russian influence. Police have responded with force, leading to numerous injuries and arrests.
Why it matters
What the papers say
The Moscow Times reports that Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has vowed to eradicate what he calls 'liberal fascism' in Georgia, a statement that has drawn parallels to Kremlin rhetoric. Meanwhile, BBC News highlights the brutal police response, with human rights ombudsman Levan Ioseliani describing the police actions as torture. The South China Morning Post notes that the protests have been fueled by fears of returning to Russian influence, with demonstrators demanding a re-run of the disputed elections. The Guardian emphasizes the defiance of protesters, who continue to rally despite police violence, showcasing a deep commitment to their pro-European aspirations. Overall, the coverage illustrates a complex situation where public sentiment clashes with government authority, raising questions about Georgia's future direction.
How we got here
The turmoil in Georgia stems from the October 26 parliamentary elections, which the opposition claims were fraudulent. Following these elections, the ruling Georgian Dream party announced it would suspend EU membership talks, igniting public outrage and protests across the country.
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