Mass protests continue in the Georgian capital, accompanied by violence and clashes with law enforcement. Amid discontent over the freezing of negotiations on the country's accession to the European Union until 2028, demonstrations have been turning into serious unrest for several days.

During the latest events, protesters began using Molotov cocktails, which resulted in one police officer catching fire. The fire was quickly extinguished thanks to the victim's colleagues, but the situation continues to escalate. Protesters are using fireworks, stones, and lasers to blind security forces, and are also shooting at the parliament building.

In response to the violence, special forces are using water cannons, tear gas and other special means. The Georgian Interior Ministry reported that at least 42 law enforcement officers have been injured since the unrest began. Most of them have been hospitalized with various injuries, including burns and fractures. In addition, according to local media, more than 150 protesters have been detained.

The protests erupted after news that Georgia's EU accession talks were being postponed until 2028. The decision has sparked a wave of discontent among the population, who fear the loss of the country's European prospects. Protesters accuse the authorities of failing to ensure Georgia's progress toward European integration and demand a review of policy approaches.

Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili earlier said that the protests should not escalate into violence, and called rumors about the transfer of Georgian troops from Ukraine to support the demonstrators a provocation. She also stressed the importance of dialogue and a peaceful resolution of the conflict.