"Georgia's Political Turmoil: Protests, Punches, and Putin's Influence"

Thousands of Georgians are protesting against a proposed foreign agents registration law, fearing it will undermine the country's bid for European Union membership and increase Russian influence. The legislation, similar to a 2012 Russian law, has sparked clashes between protesters and police, and is seen as part of a broader effort to align Georgia ideologically with Moscow. The Georgian Dream party's push for the law comes ahead of a tough parliamentary election, with the opposition eyeing gains. The U.S. and EU have expressed concerns about the law, which may undermine Georgia's Western aspirations.