On December 3, Georgia became the stage for escalating tensions as citizens continued their fight for democracy and European integration. A series of key events unfolded throughout the day, reflecting the intensity of the ongoing protests and their impact on both the nation and the international community.
The evening saw heightened violence as special forces deployed water cannons and tear gas to disperse remaining demonstrators on Rustaveli Avenue and nearby areas. Many protesters evacuated, but clashes persisted in smaller streets, with reports of electricity cuts in affected districts. Over 293 administrative arrests and five criminal detentions were reported by the Ministry of Internal Affairs, sparking accusations of police brutality.
The protests have drawn strong international reactions. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, German Bundestag officials, and U.S. representatives condemned the Georgian government’s actions, urging them to uphold democratic principles. Germany’s Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation, Svenja Schulze, announced a freeze on development projects with Georgia, signaling a growing rift with the West.
President Salome Zurabishvili described the protests as a historic movement, accusing Russia of manipulating the elections and fueling repression in Georgia. She claimed that special forces were using amphetamines to sustain their prolonged and violent operations, which have intensified over several nights. Zurabishvili praised the resilience of Georgia’s youth, who remain steadfast in their fight against authoritarianism.
Domestically, protests have erupted across the country, with teachers, students, and NGOs joining the movement. Demonstrations in cities like Batumi, Zugdidi, and Rustavi have highlighted a unified call for European integration and a rejection of Russian influence. The message is clear: “We don’t want to become Russia.”
International solidarity has also grown, with rallies held in Vilnius, Lithuania, supporting Georgia’s NATO and EU aspirations. European Commissioner Marta Kos reiterated the EU’s support for the Georgian people, emphasizing that their will must be respected.
The ongoing struggle represents a critical moment for Georgia’s political future. Will these protests pave the way for meaningful change, or will the country face further instability? The coming days will likely determine whether Georgia’s fight for Europe will succeed.
