In the heart of Tbilisi, Georgia, a significant anti-government demonstration has escalated, with protesters making an attempt to storm the presidential palace. Authorities responded by deploying water cannons and tear gas to disperse the agitated crowd.
The protests, which have been ongoing, gained momentum following calls from opposition figures for a “peaceful revolution.” These movements are largely directed against the ruling Georgian Dream party, which critics accuse of adopting pro-Russian and authoritarian policies.
Since last year, the pro-Western opposition has been vocal, organizing protests against the Georgian Dream government, which they allege won a fraudulent election. Adding to the national sentiment, the Georgian Dream party recently paused the country’s EU accession talks, a move that has frustrated many who view it as a step away from a long-held national aspiration.