Georgian President challenges riot police amid protests: “Do you serve Russia or Georgia?”

As protests intensified in Tbilisi, Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili arrived in front of the Georgian Parliament and confronted riot police stationed at Freedom Square, questioning their loyalty and urging them to uphold their duty to protect citizens and the country’s sovereignty.

President Zourabichvili, who has openly supported the protests, approached the riot police and addressed them directly. She challenged their allegiance and actions, stating:

“Do you serve Russia or Georgia? Your duty is to protect this country’s statehood and its citizens. Your role is not to disperse the people. Whom did you pledge allegiance to? Do you not answer the President?” she addressed the police.

In the wake of growing demonstrations against the government’s controversial decision to delay EU accession talks until 2028, tensions escalated on Rustaveli Avenue. Protesters, who had initially gathered on Rustaveli, moved to Freedom Square, where heavy police presence was noted, including riot officers in full gear and water cannon trucks.