Georgia Protests Escalate Amid PM's Defiance of US Criticism

Protests in Georgia have intensified as the government, led by the Georgian Dream party, suspended talks on joining the European Union, sparking widespread opposition and demonstrations across the country. The move has drawn criticism from the EU and the US, who are concerned about Georgia's shift towards Russia. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze dismissed US condemnation of police actions against protesters, while outgoing President Salome Zourabichvili refused to step down, citing the illegitimacy of the new parliament. The situation has raised fears of democratic backsliding and increased tensions with Western allies.