Protesters are said to have broken into the parliament in the Georgian breakaway region of Abkhazia, reports the Russian state-controlled agency RIA. Videos from the area show the protesters getting through the security fence surrounding the parliament with the help of several trucks. The protesters can be seen using circular saws to break through the doors of parliament. Protesters throw objects at the security forces and in return they throw smoke grenades at the protesters. Russian media are currently reporting eight injuries as a result of the protests. It is unclear exactly how many protesters have turned up. Photo: IMAGO / NTB There have been large demonstrations in Abkhazia in recent days as a result of a bill that could lead to more Russian investments. Abkhazia is a popular holiday destination for many Russians, and the bill allows Russians to buy land and property in the region. Lawmakers in Abkhazia were scheduled to vote on the proposal on Friday. Now Reuters reports that Abkhazia’s president has given in to the protesters’ demands and is choosing to scrap the proposed agreement with Russia. Demonstrators piled up in front of the entrance to the parliament. Photo: SipaUSA / NTB The decision was announced by the press office of the president, and says it was made to “stabilize the situation in the republic”. Abkhazia is part of Georgia under international law, but separatists took control of much of the region in 1993. Russia recognized Abkhazia and one other breakaway region, South Ossetia, as independent states in 2008, after Russian forces repelled a Georgian attempt to regain South Ossetia in a five-day war. Despite the close relationship between Abkhazia and Russia, many residents are concerned about increased Russian influence. Russia has military bases in both South Ossetia and Abkhazia. Published 15.11.2024, at 13.24 Updated 15.11.2024, at 14.25
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Breakaway Georgian region scraps pro-Russian investment agreement after protests – news Urix – Foreign news and documentaries
