Tensions Escalate in Georgia Amid Anti-Government Protests

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Significant unrest has erupted in Georgia as protests against the government continue, resulting in multiple arrests, including two prominent opposition leaders. Nika Melia, head of the pro-European liberal party Achali, and former Tbilisi mayor Gigi Ugulava were apprehended while attempting to block a major highway, as reported by AFP.

Prior to the protests, the Ministry of Internal Affairs warned demonstrators that blocking the highway could lead to a four-year prison sentence. Melia was later released after agreeing to appear in court. He reported that he faced police violence during his detention.

These protests come in the wake of widespread allegations of electoral fraud following the October 26 parliamentary elections, which resulted in a substantial majority for the ruling party, Georgian Dream. Opposition groups accuse the government of drawing Georgia closer to Russia at the expense of its European aspirations.

European Union foreign affairs representative Kaja Kallas condemned the violent crackdown on peaceful protesters, emphasizing the EU's support for the Georgian people's pursuit of freedom and democracy. Recent polls indicate that over 80% of Georgians support EU membership, which is constitutionally mandated.

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