**Protests Erupt in Georgia Over EU Membership Suspension**
Yesterday, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced that the country would suspend negotiations on EU membership until 2028. This decision has sparked significant protests across various cities in Georgia.
The protests are part of a broader movement against the ruling Georgian Dream party’s increasing alignment with Russia. Critics argue that this pivot undermines Georgia’s aspirations for EU membership and Western democratic values. Protests have been ongoing since October, but they turned violent on November 28 when riot police cracked down on protesters in the capital, Tbilisi.
**Violence Erupts as Police Crack Down on Protesters**
Dozens of people were beaten and detained by special forces during the crackdown. The exact number of those affected remains unknown. However, the resistance against the Georgian Dream party’s decision has not been limited to just street protests.
**Schools and Universities Join the Protest**
Many schools and universities have published open letters condemning Georgia’s renouncing of the European path. Over 220 employees from the Ministry of Education, Science, and Youth Affairs issued a joint statement criticizing the Georgian Dream’s decision. They stated that it is not in line with the country’s strategic interests.
More than 110 employees from the State Services Development Agency also spoke out against the decision, saying it harms the country’s interests and undermines citizens’ ability to have decent living conditions. Multiple universities have suspended academic activities in solidarity with the protesters.
**Diplomatic Corps and Defense Ministry Employees Join the Protest**
Georgia’s Ambassador to Bulgaria has resigned from his position, stating that the efforts of Georgian diplomats should not be undermined or compromised. More than 40 employees from the Defense Ministry issued a joint statement emphasizing the importance of European and Euro-Atlantic integration for strengthening the country’s security and sovereignty.
**International Reaction**
Multiple European leaders have expressed concern over the decision. Estonia’s Foreign Minister criticized the Georgian Dream party, saying it has lied to the people of Georgia. Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry called the decision evidence of the curtailment of democratic processes in favor of Moscow.
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