**Christmas Tree Lights Turned On in Tbilisi Without Ceremony**
The Christmas tree lights in Tbilisi were turned on without a ceremony. This comes after the festive event was canceled by the city’s mayor, Kakha Kaladze.
Kaladze made this decision because protesters continue to gather on Rustaveli Avenue every evening for the 19th consecutive day. Demonstrators have been attacked by government-backed thugs and are demanding the government’s pro-Russian stance be changed.
**Government Responds to Sanctions with Insulting Statement**
The Georgian Dream government released a statement in response to new sanctions imposed by Estonia and Lithuania. The government claimed that these two countries have “the least sovereignty among EU nations” and accused them of acting under foreign dictate.
However, the government said it would not retaliate against Estonia and Lithuania out of respect for their people. Instead, it promised to remain friends with both states.
**Opposition Leaders Released from Prison**
Nika Gvaramia, leader of the opposition group Coalition for Change, was released from prison after serving 12 days. Aleko Elisashvili, a member of the Strong Georgia opposition coalition, was also released on bail after being detained on December 4.
Gvaramia faced charges of petty hooliganism and disobeying a police order, while Elisashvili was charged with politically motivated violence against a person.
**Businesses Call for De-escalation**
More than 300 companies have joined the Free Business Platform’s call for de-escalation. They are demanding the release of detainees and new elections before the New Year. The businesses warn that the crisis poses significant economic challenges for the country.
**International Reaction**
UK Minister Stephen Doughty reported on his conversation with Georgian Dream representative Maka Botchorishvili, saying he condemned police violence and arbitrary arrests in Georgia.
The EU has also reacted, suspending visa liberalization for Georgian diplomatic passport holders. Kaja Kallas, High Representative for Foreign Affairs, condemned the violence against demonstrators and said this was just a “symbolic” first step.
Some foreign ministers are advocating for EU sanctions on Georgian Dream government officials. The Dutch Foreign Minister even offered to purchase protective equipment for journalists to continue their work safely.