**Anti-Regime Protests in Georgia Mark 150th Day**
Protesters in Georgia continued their demands for a rerun of national elections and the release of those detained during earlier rallies, marking their 150th consecutive day on Saturday. Demonstrators also intensified calls for the government to resign, with many blocking traffic on Rustaveli Avenue.
This prolonged display of defiance has become a hallmark of the Georgian resistance, which is determined to bring about change in the country’s politics. Despite the challenges and difficulties faced by protesters, their resolve remains strong, and it will be interesting to see how this situation unfolds in the coming days.
**Irakli Garibashvili Leaves Georgian Dream Party**
In a surprise move, Irakli Garibashvili, chairman of the ruling Georgian Dream party and twice former prime minister, announced that he is leaving the party and stepping down from politics entirely. He cited having “accomplished” his goals and expressed a desire to transition into the private sector.
Garibashvili’s decision has sparked significant interest in Georgia, with many wondering what implications this will have for the country’s politics. His departure could potentially create a power vacuum within the party, which may lead to further instability in the coming weeks.
**US-Georgia Relations**
During a live broadcast from Washington D.C., Levan Davitashvili, Georgian Dream First Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Economy, acknowledged the difficult legacy and strained relations between Georgia and the US. He expressed hope for a strategic reset under the Trump administration and emphasized that US and GD government positions are “in full convergence.”
This development could have significant implications for Georgia’s foreign policy and its relationships with Western nations.
**Population Growth in Georgia**
According to official data, the population of Georgia reached 3,704,500 as of January 1, 2025. This reflects an increase of 9,900 individuals compared to the same time last year. The country experienced a negative natural increase but offset this with a positive net migration.
**NATO Report Omitting Key Context**
The NATO Secretary General’s 2024 Annual Report highlighted practical cooperation with Georgia but omitted key context, including the commitment made at the 2008 Bucharest Summit to Georgia’s eventual membership and its status as a NATO aspirant.
This oversight has sparked concern among some quarters that this report may undermine Georgia’s prospects for joining NATO in the future.
**US Helsinki Commission Urges Action**
Members of the US Helsinki Commission are urging transatlantic partners to demand new parliamentary elections in Georgia and the release of protesters arrested by the “illegitimate regime.” They emphasize that failing to act would betray Georgians’ hopes and threaten South Caucasus security.
These developments suggest a complex and dynamic situation in Georgia, with many uncertainties ahead.
