VIDEO: Protests Erupt in Tbilisi Against Visa Regime and Flight Restrictions with Russia

On the evening of May 10, a protest action was organized near the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia in Tbilisi by members of the youth wing of the largest opposition party, the "United National Movement," along with the "Anti-Corruption Movement." According to the IPN agency, around 30-40 people attended the demonstration.

The protesters are voicing their opposition to the elimination of visa requirements for Georgian citizens traveling to Russia, as well as the lifting of flight restrictions between the two countries. They believe that this decision by Russian President Vladimir Putin will hinder Georgia's European integration.

Official Tbilisi announced that only those Russian airlines not under sanctions would be granted permission to fly to Georgia. This was stated to reporters by Deputy Minister of Economy Mariam Kvitsiani, while commenting on Russia's announcements regarding the potential resumption of flights to Tbilisi.

Kvitsiani also noted that the restrictions imposed by the government would not negatively affect Georgia's relations with the European Union. She emphasized that "Georgia will remain committed to a pro-Western and European course." Furthermore, the Ministry of Economy reported that they have yet to receive any information regarding the resumption of flights from Moscow.