Abkhazia President Offers Resignation Amid Protests

The president of the Moscow-backed separatist region of Abkhazia, Aslan Bzhania, announced his willingness to resign following intense protests against an investment agreement with Russia, but only if demonstrators vacate government buildings they stormed. Protesters, who have occupied the parliament building in Sukhumi, argue that the deal favors Russian interests at the expense of local autonomy, and they have rejected Bzhania's condition for his resignation. The protests escalated into violence, with clashes resulting in injuries and a postponed parliamentary session on the controversial legislation. Bzhania's administration is under pressure as opposition leaders demand his resignation, claiming he is exploiting ties with Russia for personal gain. The situation has drawn concern from Moscow, which has advised its citizens to avoid traveling to Abkhazia amid the unrest. The political crisis reflects deepening divisions over the region's relationship with Russia and local governance.