Protests in Georgia Intensify as Police Arrest Opposition Leaders

Demonstrators challenge election legitimacy, EU delay, and alleged authoritarianism under ruling Georgian Dream party.

Georgian police arrested opposition leaders Nika Melia and Gigi Ugulava during a protest in Tbilisi, accusing them of administrative offenses.
Protests reignited over allegations of election fraud, delayed EU membership talks until 2028, and concerns about authoritarian governance.
Rights groups and EU officials condemned the crackdown, citing police brutality and the repression of peaceful protesters, journalists, and politicians.
The ruling Georgian Dream party faces growing international isolation, with Brussels suspending visa-free travel for Georgian diplomats and officials last week.
The opposition, boycotting the newly elected parliament, has called the government illegitimate, deepening Georgia's political and constitutional crisis.