**Thousands Protest in Georgia for a Second Night**
November 29, 2024 – Tensions ran high as thousands of people took to the streets in Georgia for a second night. The protests began over government plans to halt EU membership talks.
**Violence Erupts**
Protesters faced aggressive police tactics around dawn. Instead of dispersing crowds, police tried to ambush protesters by rerouting through side streets. This caused chaos and put many lives at risk.
Activist Marika Mikiashvili said that previous protests had been relatively safe. However, this time was different. Even going home became a danger as protesters feared being caught in the middle of the clashes.
**Protests Spread Across Georgia**
For the first time, demonstrations spread to cities across Georgia, not just the capital Tbilisi. This unexpected development shows a significant shift in public opinion.
**Escalating Violence**
As dawn broke, police used water cannons with a new chemical agent that caused severe eye burns and breathing difficulties. Officers were seen dragging people across the pavement and beating those who were already hurt by tear gas.
Despite the increasing violence, protesters remain determined to continue their nightly demonstrations. They have changed their strategy from trying to set up permanent camps to sustained confrontations with police.
**Georgians Stand Against Russian Influence**
For many Georgians, these protests are about more than just EU membership talks. They see them as a last stand against what they believe is Russian influence over their government.
One activist said that the time for action is now: “Either we get rid of this… or we’re lost.”
**Related Stories**
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– Georgian businesses, diplomats, and universities launched strikes in support of pro-EU protesters.
– Pro-Russian party cements victory. Can Georgia’s revolution succeed?
– Georgia erupts as president slams Russia’s grip on disputed vote
– “Story of a dying empire”: Georgia’s “foreign agent” law protests echo Ukraine’s Euromaidan
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