**Georgia’s Pro-EU Protest Turns Violent**
Protests erupted in Tbilisi on November 28-29, 2024, after the government suspended talks with the European Union. The decision was made following a disputed election where the ruling pro-Russian Georgian Dream party claimed victory.
**Chemical Irritants Used Against Protesters?**
Reports are emerging that police used chemical-laced water cannons against protesters. Journalist Aka Zarkua said people were experiencing severe eye burning and breathing difficulties after being sprayed with water from the cannons.
**Police Deny Chemical Use, But Allow It**
The Interior Ministry claims it is permissible to mix gas or other substances into the water cannons, but denies using them during the protests. However, Deputy Interior Minister Aleksandre Darakhvelidze said that adding such substances is legally allowed in certain circumstances.
**Protesters Detained, Journalists Attacked**
At least 107 people were detained on the second night of protests in Tbilisi. Journalist Aka Zarkua reported that this level of force against journalists was unprecedented and that police were no longer protecting them from harm.
**Related Stories:**
* Georgian authorities deploy force as pro-EU protests spread nationwide
* Former Ukrainian FM addresses protests in Georgia, urging people not to let their future be stolen.
* Businesses, diplomats, universities launch strikes after crackdown on pro-EU protesters
* Pro-Russian party cements victory, but can Georgia’s revolution succeed?
* “Story of a dying empire”: Georgia’s “foreign agent” law protests echo Ukraine’s Euromaidan
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