Georgian President denounces violent crackdown on Tbilisi protests, appeals to Europe

President Salome Zourabichvili strongly condemned the violent suppression of peaceful protests in Tbilisi, describing the actions of authorities as an attack on European ideals. In a post on X on November 30, she stated:

“It is Europe and the European ideal that these Russian proxies are deliberately and savagely crushing on the Tbilisi streets. Wake up Europe!”

Zourabichvili’s comments come amid ongoing protests in Georgia against the government’s decision to delay negotiations for European Union membership until 2028. Demonstrations in Tbilisi and across the country have drawn thousands, with participants expressing frustration over what they perceive as a betrayal of Georgia’s pro-European aspirations.

The protests have been met with a heavy-handed response, including the use of water cannons and arrests. Civil society groups and international observers have raised concerns over the excessive use of force against protesters and journalists.

Zourabichvili, a vocal advocate for European integration, has consistently criticized the government’s policies, framing the EU as a crucial path for Georgia’s democratic development. Her latest remarks underscore a growing divide between the government and public sentiment on Georgia’s European future.