Protests Escalate in Abkhazia Over Russian Investment Deal

Demonstrators demand President Aslan Bzhania's resignation after storming parliament in the Russian-backed region.

Protesters in Abkhazia, a Russian-backed breakaway region of Georgia, stormed the parliament to oppose a controversial investment agreement with Moscow.
The proposed deal would allow Russian entities to buy property in Abkhazia, raising concerns about local displacement and increased Russian influence.
President Aslan Bzhania offered to resign and hold snap elections if protesters vacated the parliament, but demonstrators demand his unconditional resignation.
Russia has urged its citizens to avoid traveling to Abkhazia due to the unrest, while stating it will not interfere in the situation.
Abkhazia declared independence from Georgia in 1999, but most of the world recognizes it as part of Georgia, with its economy heavily reliant on Russian support.