Ukraine Condemns Georgian Government’s Crackdown as Protests Continue for Fourth Night

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine has strongly condemned the ongoing human rights violations and the use of force against peaceful protesters in Georgia.

"Georgia's authorities must respect the fundamental right of citizens to peaceful protest, especially as the protests stem from the government's decision to halt the country's EU integration process, against the wishes of the Georgian people," the Ministry said in a statement.

Ukraine also expressed concern over attempts by the Georgian government to downplay the significance of its policy shift, with some officials suggesting that Georgia's European integration remains on track, despite actions signaling a pivot toward Moscow.

"We reject attempts by the Georgian authorities to involve Ukraine in their internal political struggles. The Georgian government must cease its efforts to scare its population with the ‘Ukrainian scenario’ while, in practice, moving towards the ‘Belarusian scenario,’" the statement continued.

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Ukraine reaffirmed its unwavering support for Georgia’s democratic transformation and its pursuit of European and Euro-Atlantic integration, stressing that these goals align with the aspirations of the Georgian people. The Ministry also expressed solidarity with Georgian diplomats who publicly opposed the government's decision to withdraw from discussions on EU accession.

“Ukraine understands the challenges facing its Georgian colleagues, having faced similar moments of political crisis in 2004 and 2014. During those critical times in our history, Ukraine's diplomatic service stood firmly in defense of the democratic will of the Ukrainian people, demonstrating professional and civic courage,” the statement added.

Ukraine concluded by reiterating its firm belief that European integration is the key to stability, prosperity, and strengthening democratic institutions in Georgia.

Georgia's Interior Ministry reported on Sunday that 27 protesters, 16 police officers, and one journalist were hospitalized. Overall, 224 individuals had been arrested during the protests. Between December 1 and 2, 21 police officers were injured, bringing the total to 113 injuries since November 28.