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Protesters Storm Abkhazian Parliament Amid Consideration of Russia Deal
Mass demonstrations erupt as lawmakers debate integration agreement with Moscow
Protesters breach Parliament building, demanding halt to deal that would deepen ties with Russia
**Sukhumi, Abkhazia** - Protesters stormed the Parliament building in the breakaway region of Abkhazia on Tuesday, demanding a halt to the consideration of an integration agreement with Russia. The demonstrations erupted as lawmakers debated the deal, which would deepen ties between the two countries and grant Russia increased control over Abkhazia's economy, security, and foreign policy.
**Background**
Abkhazia, a small region on the Black Sea coast, declared independence from Georgia in 1993 after a bloody war. The conflict left the region politically isolated, with only a handful of countries recognizing its independence. Russia has been Abkhazia's main political and economic supporter, providing financial aid and military protection.
**Protests and Violence**
The protests began on Monday, when thousands of people gathered outside the Parliament building in the capital, Sukhumi. The demonstrators, led by opposition parties and civil society groups, demanded the withdrawal of the integration agreement, arguing that it would undermine Abkhazia's sovereignty and lead to its annexation by Russia.
On Tuesday, the protests escalated into violence as protesters breached the Parliament building, breaking windows and confronting lawmakers. The police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowd, but the protesters remained undeterred.
**Government Response**
The Abkhazian government has condemned the violence and called for calm. President Aslan Bzhania has urged protesters to respect the democratic process and engage in dialogue with the government. However, the opposition has rejected the government's calls for talks, vowing to continue the protests until the integration agreement is withdrawn.
**International Reactions**
The international community has expressed concern over the situation in Abkhazia. The United States has called for a peaceful resolution of the conflict and urged Abkhazia to respect its citizens' right to peaceful protest. The European Union has also called for restraint and dialogue.
**What's Next?**
The future of the integration agreement and the political situation in Abkhazia remain uncertain. The government has suspended Parliament's consideration of the agreement until further notice, but it is unclear whether this will be enough to appease the protesters. The opposition has vowed to continue its protests, raising the possibility of further violence and instability in the region.