Protests and Clashes in Tbilisi: Large Number of Arrests, City Traffic Paralyzed

Massive protests are taking place in the center of Tbilisi against the foreign agents law approved by the Parliament. Reports indicate that police are using tear gas against the demonstrators.

As a reminder, the Georgian Parliament approved a foreign agents bill in the first reading, which led to a resurgence of protests in Tbilisi after the announcement. A large crowd has gathered in the center of Tbilisi, expressing dissatisfaction with what they see as a "halt to democracy."

Traffic in the Georgian capital is at a standstill, and attempts to disperse the crowd have resulted in clashes between protesters and law enforcement. Police are using tear gas and water cannons. Many protesters have been arrested, but unrest continues.

Young people accuse the ruling Georgian party of deliberately mimicking Russian laws on foreign agents and "Putinism." Officially, the authorities justify the law by stating it is necessary to ensure transparency in foreign funding.