**Georgia Commemorates 36th Anniversary of Bloody Soviet Suppression**
Today, Georgia marked the 36th anniversary of a devastating massacre that took place on April 9, 1989. On this day, Soviet troops used poison gas and beat protesters with spades, killing 21 people and injuring hundreds more.
The victims were mostly women who had gathered to demand independence from the Soviet Union. The event is considered one of the most traumatic moments in Georgia’s modern history.
As Georgians commemorated the tragedy on Rustaveli Avenue, the government was criticized for not paying tribute to the victims at a memorial ceremony. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze instead posted a social media statement that avoided mentioning Soviet Russia as the perpetrator of the violence.
**President Accuses Government of Driving Georgia Towards Authoritarianism**
Meanwhile, President Salome Zurabishvili used her visit to the Czech Republic to address concerns about Georgia’s democratic backsliding. She accused the Georgian Dream government of pushing the country towards authoritarianism and autocracy, likening its policies to Stalinist purges.
**Azerbaijani President Criticizes European Commission**
In related news, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev criticized the European Commission for taking an “absolutely unacceptable” stance on Georgia’s internal affairs. He accused the EU of acting like a colonial power and trying to impose its will on the Georgian people.
**European Parliament Condemns Democratic Backsliding in Georgia**
The European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs also weighed in, expressing strong concern over Georgia’s democratic backsliding. Members called for immediate sanctions against Bidzina Ivanishvili, who was accused of rigging the October 2024 parliamentary elections.
As Georgia continues to navigate its complex relations with neighboring countries and the EU, these developments highlight concerns about the country’s democratic health and stability.
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