Georgia’s health ministry reported on Tuesday that 26 people, primarily protesters, were injured during the latest wave of anti-government demonstrations in the Caucasus nation.
The country has been in political turmoil since its disputed October election, with pro-European Union protesters taking to the streets in increasing numbers to challenge the ruling Georgian Dream party.
The latest protests, which marked the fifth consecutive day of mass demonstrations in Tbilisi, were sparked by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s announcement that the government would delay talks on EU membership until 2028.
According to the health ministry “26 individuals, including 23 protesters and three representatives of the ministry of internal affairs” — referring to law enforcement officers — were transported to medical facilities following Monday’s protests. “None of the injuries are life-threatening,” the ministry stated, adding that some of the injured are still under medical supervision.
The excessive response from the police has drawn criticism from several Western nations, with the UN’s human rights chief expressing concern on Monday about the “disproportionate” use of force by authorities.
The standoff between riot police and largely youthful demonstrators persisted through the night, with police deploying tear gas to disperse the crowds, who responded by hurling fireworks.
