Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze today condemned the assault on media representatives during the ongoing protests in Tbilisi, describing it as a “provocation” with the intent to “artificially escalate” tensions in the country.
Addressing the attack, Kobakhidze stated, “This is clearly a provocation, designed solely to stir up conflict. An investigation is underway, and I am confident that those responsible will be identified promptly.”
The Prime Minister specifically condemned the assault on TV Pirveli’s cameraman, who was injured during the incident. He called the attack “particularly disturbing” and emphasized that such actions play into the hands of radicals seeking to destabilize the situation.
Kobakhidze expressed gratitude for the public’s “healthy and correct response” to the incident, urging everyone to reject violence, regardless of its target.
The attack occurred late on Saturday when masked individuals dressed in black assaulted TV Pirveli journalist Maka Chikhladze and cameraman Giorgi Shetsiruli, both of whom sustained mild concussions. The assault took place during a protest that has been ongoing since November 28, in opposition to the government’s decision to delay EU accession talks until 2028.
