Recent events in Georgia have been marked by significant public unrest and protests against the government's decision to delay its pursuit of European Union membership until 2028. Demonstrations erupted following Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze's remarks, which many citizens interpreted as a retreat from pro-European policies. Protesters have clashed with police, voicing their frustration over perceived government capitulation to Russian influence and the suspension of EU accession talks. This turmoil reflects broader concerns about Georgia's geopolitical alignment and its aspirations for closer ties with the West.
Georgia, located at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, is a former Soviet republic with a rich cultural heritage and a complex political landscape. It gained independence in 1991 following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The country has since sought to establish itself as a democratic state and has pursued integration with Western institutions, including NATO and the EU. However, Georgia's strategic position has made it a focal point of tension between Russia and the West, particularly in light of Russia's military interventions in the region. The ongoing struggle for political stability and national identity continues to shape Georgia's trajectory on the global stage.