A Georgian journalist was injured in a dramatic and chaotic scene during ongoing protests in Tbilisi. The protests, led by pro-EU opposition supporters, turned violent when a masked demonstrator fired fireworks from a homemade “bazooka” at police. One of these makeshift rockets hit Beso Gaprindashvili, a camera operator for the Georgian public broadcaster, injuring his arm. Gaprindashvili was quickly taken to the hospital for treatment.
The protests have been building in intensity since Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced the suspension of EU membership talks until 2028. This decision enraged opposition supporters, who have been accusing the ruling Georgian Dream party of being “pro-Russian” and manipulating recent parliamentary elections. However, they have yet to present solid evidence to back these claims.
Tensions escalated further on Tuesday evening when RT cameras captured the hooded protester on the streets of Tbilisi. Holding what looked like a DIY rocket launcher loaded with fireworks, the protester fired at police officers in the middle of the chaos. The crowd’s fury intensified as they demanded justice for the alleged election fraud.
Earlier that day, Georgia’s Constitutional Court dismissed a lawsuit filed by President Salome Zourabichvili and opposition parties, who had asked to annul the October 26 election results. The court’s decision added fuel to the protesters’ anger, as they claimed the elections were rigged.
For weeks, protests have been unfolding in front of the Georgian Parliament, with opposition leaders and supporters accusing the government of betrayal and aligning with Russia. Police have reported that the demonstrations are becoming increasingly violent, with makeshift weapons like the fireworks launcher now entering the fray.
This incident highlights the growing unrest in Georgia, where political disputes and public anger continue to push the nation toward instability. As protests intensify, the question remains: how far will this turmoil go, and will a peaceful resolution be possible?
