Protests Erupt in Tbilisi as Opposition Leaders Arrested, Injuries Reported

Protests demanding new elections resumed in Tbilisi, Georgia, on February 2, leading to the arrest of key opposition leaders, including Nika Melia and former mayor Gigi Ugulava. The demonstrators attempted to block a major highway near Tbilisi Mall, defying recent legislation that classifies such actions as criminal offenses. The protests have been ongoing since the Georgian Dream party's controversial victory in the October elections, which the opposition claims were rigged. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze's announcement regarding a potential delay in EU membership talks until 2028 has further fueled public discontent. Reports indicate that police employed aggressive tactics, resulting in injuries among protesters and widespread arrests. Human rights advocates have raised concerns over police brutality and the political motivations behind the arrests.