Violent Protests Erupt in Abkhazia Over Russian Property Agreement

Public anger over a contentious property investment agreement with Russia boiled over in Abkhazia on Friday, as demonstrators forced their way into the parliament building. Using a truck as a battering ram, protesters broke through the entrance gates and engaged in confrontations with security forces. The situation intensified when protesters pelted police with eggs and plastic bottles, leading authorities to deploy tear gas to disperse the crowd.

The disputed agreement has ignited significant local resistance, with many Abkhazians concerned about growing Russian economic power in their territory. While Russia supports Abkhazia’s independence claim, the international community considers it part of Georgia, creating an ongoing source of regional tension.

The demonstrations underscore a growing internal conflict in Abkhazia between maintaining ties with its Russian allies and preserving local sovereignty. Many residents view expanding economic connections with Moscow as potentially undermining their self-governance.